Politics
Wisconsin 3rd District candidates divide over tax package and Iran conflict
At an Eau Claire forum, Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden defended President Donald Trump’s tax-cut package, while Democratic challenger Rebecca Cooke said its lasting benefits favor billionaires. The candidates also differed on health care costs and congressional authority over military action in Iran.
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — Taxes and federal spending took center stage at a forum this week between Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden and Democratic challenger Rebecca Cooke, who are competing in Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District.
Van Orden defended his vote for President Donald Trump’s tax-cut package, calling it “the largest tax cut in the history of our country.” He said Cooke was on record opposing it.
Cooke argued that the package’s benefits for workers are temporary while tax breaks for wealthy people endure. She pointed to provisions covering tips and overtime, saying they expire in two years, and said she would make those tax breaks permanent. “What is permanent is the tax breaks for billionaires,” she said.
The candidates also disagreed over health care costs and the conflict in Iran. Cooke said Congress must approve any military action. Van Orden said the conflict makes it more difficult for Republicans to retain power in Washington.
The exchange put competing claims about who benefits from tax policy alongside questions about congressional oversight of military decisions — issues that could shape voters’ choices in the district.