Opportunity Wisconsin's Meghan Roh previews La Crosse town hall featuring US House Rep. Pocan

Meghan Roh, Program Director at Opportunity Wisconsin, joined La Crosse Talk to preview an upcoming town hall featuring special guest U.S. Representative Mark Pocan (D–Madison). The event begins at 5 Tuesday at the Capella Performing Arts Center (register here). Opportunity Wisconsin is helping organize the event, which aims to engage residents on key federal issues. Roh noted that U.S. Representative Derrick Van Orden (R–Prairie du Chien), who represents the district, was invited to participate. While representatives from Opportunity Wisconsin recently met with Van Orden for two hours in Washington, D.C., she said it appears unlikely he will attend. Roh detailed what Van Orden shared during that D.C. meeting, particularly regarding potential federal funding cuts that could impact people on Medicaid, Social Security, and Medicare. We also asked Roh about the format of the town hall — will attendees have the chance to speak directly with Rep. Pocan? — and who is welcome to attend. She referenced a similar town hall held last month in Eau Claire, which featured Wisconsin Secretary of State Sarah Godlewski. Van Orden was invited to that event as well but did not attend. Roh also responded to criticism from the La Crosse County Republican Party, which recently labeled the upcoming La Crosse town hall a “fake event.” The interview began with an overview of Opportunity Wisconsin’s mission, its advocacy work, and the top priorities they’re hearing from Wisconsin residents at events like this one. Opportunity Wisconsin describes itself as a coalition of advocates, small business owners, and seniors committed to building support for policies that support working families. Other groups involved in organizing Tuesday's town hall include: Main Street AllianceClimate PowerProtect Our CareWorking Families PowerFamily Friendly WisconsinCommittee to Protect Health CareSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.