MEET MERLIN

A trusted neighbor for the Northwoods

Around kitchen tables, at fish fries, in coffee shops, and at community events across Oneida and Vilas Counties, Merlin has spent years listening to the people who call the Northwoods home.

Not as a career politician.  As a neighbor.

More than a decade ago, Merlin ran for State Assembly because he believed local communities were being asked to carry too much of the burden when it came to funding schools and essential services. Fourteen years later, families are still seeing the same pressures show up in their property tax bills while local governments are left trying to do more with less.

That’s one of the reasons he decided to step forward again.

My approach is straightforward

SHOW UP

Not just during election season. Every community matters—from Rhinelander to the smallest township. I'll be there.

LISTEN FIRST

People who live here know what they need better than politicians in Madison. My job is to listen, then fight for solutions that actually work.

WORK ACROSS THE AISLE

I've done this on the school board for years. You don't have to agree on everything to work together on the things that matter. Getting to know people personally—even when you disagree—makes everything work better.

KEEP IT PRACTICAL

I'm not interested in ideology or talking points. I'm interested in fixing problems: property tax relief, protecting our lakes, making healthcare accessible, supporting small businesses. We need to look at where other states have found success, and be willing to listen to varying ideas. 

STAY ACCOUNTABLE

You deserve to know what I'm doing. I'll report back regularly, hold office hours, and make myself available. This is your seat—I'm just the person you hire to represent you.

When I'm not campaigning or on the school board

• You'll find me fishing local lakes. Even though the fish don't always cooperate. Working out in my garden, or "playing" on my land.

• I drive the school bus because I genuinely enjoy getting to know our students and seeing what they're accomplishing. Our children are the future, and I see great promise in them. They are doing amazing things.

• My wife Ann and I try to support local businesses as much as possible—hardware stores, grocery stores, restaurants. If we can buy it local, we do.

• I'm still fascinated by insects (told you I was that guy). If you ever want to talk about pollinators, haplodiploidy or parasitoid wasps I'm your guy.

• I was born and raised on a dairy farm near Waupun, graduating from Waupun High School in 1978. I am a proud Badger, graduating from UW Madison in 1982.

• I'm a grandfather to Jack and Bodhi.

• I'm a member of my church, and faith is important to me—but I respect that everyone has their own beliefs. We each need to find our "path" to God. 

If you see me around town, please say hello. I'm here to listen.