Background
Russell Goodwin earned a high school diploma from Shorewood High School. He attended the University of Memphis, the Milwaukee Area Technical College, and Oral Roberts University.[1] Goodwin's career experience includes working as the owner of Goodwin Enterprises, LLC. and as a youth pastor, published author, actor, singer, and musician. He has served as a volunteer pastor at The Movement Center Church and as a member of the Council on Highway Safety.[2][3]
- High school:
- Shorewood High School
In their own words
Who are you? Tell us about yourself.
I am a results-driven Democrat who believes public service is about serving people. My commitment has always been to the residents of Assembly District 12. Every decision I make is guided by what is best for the families of Milwaukee, Brown Deer, and Wauwatosa.
It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as your State Representative. During my first term, I have worked on more than 500 pieces of legislation, passed over 40 bills in the State Assembly, and had more than 20 signed into law by the Governor.
I grew up in a union household, own a small business, and serve as a volunteer pastor. Those experiences have taught me the value of hard work, accountability, and bringing people together to solve problems.
My priorities are improving public safety, strengthening our schools, lowering property taxes, supporting working families, and creating economic opportunity. I believe in common-sense solutions, fiscal responsibility, and putting District 12 first. I am running for re-election to continue delivering results and serving every resident with integrity.
Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?
As your State Representative, I have focused on delivering results for District 12. In my first term, I worked on more than 500 pieces of legislation, passed over 40 bills in the Assembly, and had more than 20 signed into law. I will continue working to improve public safety, strengthen our schools, lower property taxes, and support working families.I am a results-driven Democrat who puts the people of District 12 first. I believe in listening to my constituents, being accessible, and working with anyone, regardless of party or ideology, to solve problems and improve the quality of life in Milwaukee, Brown Deer, and Wauwatosa.I believe government should be accountable, fiscally responsible, and focused on practical solutions. My priorities are safer neighborhoods, stronger schools, economic opportunity, responsible spending, and protecting taxpayers. I will continue fighting every day to make District 12 a better place to live, work, and raise a family.
What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?
I am passionate about public safety, education, economic development, and helping working families succeed. I believe every child deserves access to a quality education, every family deserves to feel safe in their neighborhood, and every taxpayer deserves responsible stewardship of their hard-earned dollars. I am committed to lowering property taxes, expanding economic opportunities, supporting small businesses, improving infrastructure, addressing reckless driving, and ensuring government is transparent, accountable, and responsive to the people it serves. My goal is to build stronger communities where families can live, work, worship, and thrive.
What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?
Endorsed by the Milwaukee Police Association, Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC), Wisconsin State Conference of IBEW, Wisconsin NASW-WI Social Workers PAC, and other community leaders and organizations.
Russell Goodwin did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2024 Candidate Connection survey.
Russell Goodwin did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2023 Candidate Connection survey.
Russell Goodwin did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2022 Candidate Connection survey.
Russell Goodwin did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2020 Candidate Connection survey.
Goodwin's campaign website highlighted the following issues:[9]
School Choice
Better Job Climate
Promote Small Business
Cut State Income Tax
Cut Property Tax
Merit Pay for Teachers
On the 2026 ballot
Links
Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026.
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