How to contact Gov. Tony Evers and your representatives in the Wisconsin Legislature

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Wisconsin state government may seem a little confusing at times — especially now — but the basics are actually pretty simple. Here's a short primer on how state government works, along with a few ways you can stay in touch with the people who represent you in Madison.

And always remember the coolest part: You are the boss. You decide at the ballot box who stays and who goes.

The basics

Just like the federal government, Wisconsin has three branches — legislative, executive and judicial. All of them, ultimately, are answerable to you because in Wisconsin, unlike some states, we also elect Supreme Court justices and other judges.

The legislative branch

The Legislature makes laws and acts as a check on the executive branch. The bills legislators pass touch everyone who lives in the state in one way or another. They help decide, for example, how much funding is received by schools, police, state parks, universities, roads and dozens of other vital services. And, they decide how much you pay in taxes.

The executive branch

The governor's job is to oversee the administration of state government, including state agencies, and to decide whether the bills passed by the Legislature should be signed into law.

The judicial branch

The state Supreme Court reviews state laws to decide if they are legally consistent with the state constitution. In addition, the Supreme Court administers the Wisconsin court system and regulates lawyers who practice in the state.

Who represents me in the Legislature?

Two people represent you, one in the Assembly, which has 99 seats overall, and one in the Senate, which has 33 seats. Fun fact: Each Senate district is composed of three Assembly districts. Assembly representatives serve two-year terms; senators serve four-year terms.

How can I contact my representatives?

To get in touch with your legislators, go to https://legis.wisconsin.gov/ and fill in your address where it says, "Who Are My Legislators?" and then click on "Find Your Legislator."

The district you live in will pop up along with the names, email addresses and telephone numbers for your representatives. You'll also see a map of the district you live in and notice a link that you can click to get more information.