Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Tara Johnson (D-Shelby) in studio to discuss the couple of days Republicans have scheduled for the Legislature to work this year.

The Republican majority intends to end the 2026 session by Feb. 19, meaning a slew of bills have very little time to clear the floor.

Johnson offered a bit of a civics lesson on how members try to get bills passed, how they co-sponsor colleagues’ legislation, and if any Democratic-authored proposals might actually make it to a vote. We also recap her first year in office and how she has prioritized being available to her constituents throughout the district.

Regarding legislative hurdles, Johnson highlighted some of the culture war issues Republicans are pushing — like making English the official language — while arguing that affordability should be the top priority. That led to a conversation about tax on tips and what Johnson actually thought should have been in that GOP bill.

Johnson also speculated that Republicans might try to use up the budget surplus before Democrats potentially take control of the Legislature next year.

Lastly, we touched on the governor’s race following Josh Schoemann exiting the field. That leaves Tom Tiffany as the lone major Republican in the race, while Democrats have seven candidates vying to win the August primary.