A dad, veteran, and business builder for Wisconsin’s middle class.
About Brad
Brad Smith grew up in Neenah, the son of a feed-mill worker, and enlisted in the Wisconsin National Guard as a Forward Observer, rising to Staff Sergeant and completing a 14-month deployment. His unit earned a federal Humanitarian Award for assisting FEMA after Hurricane Katrina.
The first man in seven generations of his family to graduate college, he built a career in technology and now runs his own consulting business. He is challenging Republican Rep. Glenn Grothman in WI-6, which includes part of Appleton.
Where Brad stands
Positions marked ★ Top Wisconsin issue rank among Wisconsin voters’ highest priorities (Marquette Law School Poll, statewide, August 2026).
Backs raising the minimum wage, expanding apprenticeships, and rewarding companies that create jobs at home.
Wants to lower costs, protect coverage for pre-existing conditions, and keep care close to home.
“Defend reproductive freedom and ensure women, not politicians, have the right to make their own healthcare choices.”
Would require transparency, safeguards, and accountability for massive data-center developments before they move forward.
Supports fair milk pricing, a legal year-round workforce, and broadband on every farm.
The race
Running for: U.S. House, Wisconsin’s 6th District
Opponent: Republican incumbent Glenn Grothman
Why it matters for Outagamie: WI-6 includes part of the City of Appleton on the Outagamie side, so a slice of county voters are Smith’s constituents.
Endorsements
- National Education Association
- Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC)
- SEIU Wisconsin
- Sierra Club
- Moms Demand Action
- Our Wisconsin Revolution
Sources: Campaign site · WisPolitics (primary win) · Endorsements