If you work in agriculture, live in a rural community, or care about how farm policy affects Wisconsin, voting is worth planning for—not putting off until later.In this interview, Jason Mugnaini, executive director of government relations at the Wisconsin Farm Bureau, explains why the I Farm, I Vote campaign matters, how to research candidates, and what to consider if you’re interested in running for local office.The central message is straightforward: agriculture may represent a small share of the population, but it has a major impact on Wisconsin’s economy, jobs, and communities. Informed voting and local civic participation help ensure agricultural voices are heard.
Why I Farm, I Vote exists
The I Farm, I Vote campaign encourages farmers, rural residents, and people connected to agriculture to become informed voters and cast a ballot.Mugnaini notes that agriculture makes up about 2% of the population, yet supports a $116 billion industry in Wisconsin and is connected to 11% of jobs in the state. Laws and regulations affect more than farms—they shape the food supply chain, rural economies, and the ability to bring products to market.Agriculture may not be top of mind for every voter, but decisions about farming and rural communities affect people across Wisconsin. The campaign works to raise awareness through yard signs, op-eds, social media, and outreach to collegiate Farm Bureau members. Mugnaini says the organization has placed around 6,000 yard signs across the state.The takeaway: when people connected to agriculture vote, they help make sure their communities’ needs are part of the conversation.
Key Wisconsin voting dates
Farm schedules can be demanding, especially during harvest. Mugnaini recommends making a plan to vote rather than waiting for a free moment that may not come.The interview highlighted these dates:
- October 14: Deadline to register to vote by mail
- October 20–30: In-person absentee voting period
- October 29: Last day to request an absentee ballot
- November 3: Election Day
Mugnaini advises voters to take an opportunity to vote early when it fits their schedule. If you’re already going into town, for example, you might be able to stop by your clerk’s office. Check current dates and procedures before you vote, since election information can vary by election and may change. The state’s official voter portal is a good place to confirm details.
How to find agriculture-friendly candidates
A good starting point is the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Volunteers for Agriculture endorsement information. Mugnaini says the organization endorsed 10 candidates for the state Senate and 57 for the state Assembly in the election discussed in the interview.You can also do your own research:
- Visit candidates’ websites.
- Search for a candidate’s name alongside “agriculture.”
- Look for their views on farming, land use, rural infrastructure, and food production.
- Consider whether they have engaged with agricultural organizations and communities.
Mugnaini also describes the Farm Bureau’s Engage with Ag series, which brings candidates to farms and agricultural businesses. The interview notes that the series held about 10 events and brought out 65 candidates, including visits to farms, processing facilities, ethanol facilities, and the Port of Milwaukee.Those visits help illustrate a broader point: agriculture is connected to communities throughout the state, not only to rural areas.
How the Farm Bureau endorsement process works
The Farm Bureau’s political arm, Volunteers for Agriculture, is governed by an 18-member committee of farmers from around Wisconsin. Mugnaini says members were invited to interview candidates and share recommendations as part of the process discussed in the interview.The committee reviews races and candidate information, with a focus on agriculture. Mugnaini describes the process as member-driven and involving substantial discussion.For voters, the useful lesson is to look beyond a campaign slogan. Research candidates’ positions and consider how well they understand the issues affecting agriculture and rural communities.
How to check your ballot before voting
Mugnaini recommends My Vote Wisconsin, the state’s official voter information website at myvote.wi.gov.The site can help you:
- Find your polling place
- See what’s on your ballot
- Get a sample ballot based on your address
- Check voter registration information
- Track an absentee ballot
Reviewing a sample ballot ahead of time can help you make decisions on your own schedule instead of trying to research candidates at the last minute.
Interested in running for local office?
Mugnaini encourages people who want to get involved to consider starting locally, such as with a town board or county board. Local officials make decisions that can affect farms and rural communities, including zoning, road use, and local spending. In the interview, he discussed the April 6, 2027 local election and said nomination papers could begin circulating on December 1, 2026, with signatures due by January 5, 2027. Check official sources for current requirements and deadlines. Wisconsin Farm Bureau was also planning local campaign schools in Madison, Stevens Point, and River Falls on November 10, 12, and 17, as described in the interview. The sessions were intended to help prospective candidates learn about local office and running an effective local campaign. Visit WFBF.com to verify event information and availability. Running for local office doesn’t require a high-profile campaign. It starts with learning what the role involves and deciding whether you’re ready to serve your community.
Why voting matters for rural Wisconsin
Mugnaini’s closing advice is simple: vote, be informed, and encourage others to participate. He points to issues including land use, transmission lines, childcare, healthcare, and support for beginning farmers as examples of the concerns that affect rural communities. Having elected officials who understand those needs can make a difference in how communities develop and what support is available. A practical place to start is to confirm your registration, review your ballot, and choose how you’ll vote. If you want to get more involved, research candidates, explore local campaign schools, or learn about opportunities to serve in local office. For more information about the Wisconsin Farm Bureau and its I Farm, I Vote resources, visit WFBF.com. For official Wisconsin voting information, visit My Vote Wisconsin.
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