From advocacy to office: how Conservation Lobby Day helped shape Rep. Angelito Tenorio’s path to the Wisconsin State Assembly

Rep. Angelito Tenorio’s path to the Wisconsin State Assembly has been defined by service and advocacy. As an educator, a soldier in the Wisconsin Army National Guard, a West Allis Alderman, and an advocate with Wisconsin Conservation Voters, he has dedicated his career to making a positive impact. His work with WCV, particularly his participation in Conservation Lobby Day, played a pivotal role in shaping his commitment to public service and his eventual decision to run for office.

Can you tell us a little about your journey from working at WCV to being elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly? What inspired you to take this next step into politics?

Rep. Tenorio: My journey has always been about service. From my time as an educator, a soldier in the Wisconsin Army National Guard, a West Allis Alderman, or an advocate with Wisconsin Conservation Voters, I’ve always been committed to serving others and making the community better for everyone. Working at WCV, I saw firsthand how grassroots organizing and strong advocacy can drive real change. I also saw the roadblocks in our legislature when it comes to protecting our environment and our communities. That inspired me to step up, run for office, and bring a strong, community-focused voice to the Assembly.

Also, Conservation Lobby Day reinforced how powerful collective action can be. Meeting with legislators alongside passionate community members made it clear that real change happens when everyday people step up and demand action. It also showed me that lawmakers are more likely to listen when people from their own districts speak out – something I carry with me now as a representative.

Did attending Conservation Lobby Day play a role in your decision to run for state office? If so, how did that day influence your path toward public service?

Rep. Tenorio: Absolutely. Conservation Lobby Day was a powerful reminder of how advocacy can shape policy and create real change. Seeing everyday people – community members, business owners, and advocates – come together to push for environmental protections reinforced the idea that democracy works best when people are engaged. This experience solidified my belief that we need more leaders in the legislature who prioritize clean water, clean air, and a sustainable future. It showed me firsthand how important it is to have decision-makers who not only listen to these voices but who also champion these issues from inside the Capitol. I am inspired by this vision and hope to emulate that in my public service.

We know we’ll be focusing on clean water, clean energy, and a healthy democracy at this year’s lobby day. What are your top priorities from a conservation, environmental, and democracy perspective as you begin your tenure in the Assembly? Are there specific issues you hope to tackle in the short-term?

Rep. Tenorio: Given my background as a climate organizer, climate change, clean water, and clean energy is my top priority. This is also an issue that is a priority for my district. A recent report rated West Allis as the city with the hottest surface temperature in Wisconsin. While the near and present impact of climate change is obvious to some, to others it is less salient and therefore a lower priority issue. In my first month in office, I have seen a vacuum in the conversation on environmental justice and climate change. Our office is already working with my colleagues to fill this void and bring climate issues to the forefront of the conversation in Wisconsin.

How can members of WCV and the public best support your work in the Assembly to advance environmental protections in Wisconsin?

Rep. Tenorio: Engage with your legislators – especially those who may not be strong on conservation issues. Reach out to the governor. Share your stories about why clean water, clean air, climate action, and a healthy environment matter to you. Show up for public hearings, write letters, invite your friends to join you, and keep organizing. As a collective, we can all make progress. Your voices are powerful, and they make a difference.

For those who are looking to advocate for conservation and environmental issues in Wisconsin, what advice would you offer based on your unique experience as both an advocate and now an elected official?

Rep. Tenorio: Build relationships. Advocacy is about more than just policy – it’s about connecting with people and finding common ground. Whether it’s with legislators, community leaders, or your neighbors, relationships help move issues forward. And don’t get discouraged. Change takes time, but persistence pays off.

How do you envision collaborating with both environmental advocates and your colleagues in the legislature to move pro-conservation efforts forward?

Rep. Tenorio: I plan to collaborate with environmental advocates by amplifying their research, lived experiences, and policy solutions in the Assembly while also working across the aisle to find common ground on issues like clean water, renewable energy, and protecting Wisconsin’s natural resources. Many communities, regardless of party, care deeply about conservation, and I see that as an opportunity to build coalitions and advance meaningful policies. By engaging with advocates, local leaders, and my colleagues, I aim to move proactive, bipartisan solutions forward to protect our environment and ensure a sustainable future for Wisconsin.

What has been the most surprising aspect of your first weeks as a representative?

Rep. Tenorio: The pace! There’s a lot to learn, and things move quickly. But what’s been most encouraging is seeing just how many people – from constituents to advocates to colleagues – are committed to making Wisconsin a better place. That gives me hope and keeps me motivated.

Rep. Tenorio’s journey from advocacy to elected office is a testament to the power of grassroots organizing and civic engagement. His commitment to environmental issues, clean energy, and democracy continues to drive his work in the Assembly. As he collaborates with advocates and fellow legislators, his focus remains on pushing sustainable solutions that will benefit Wisconsin for generations to come. His story serves as an inspiration for all who believe in the power of advocacy and the importance of having strong leaders who prioritize conservation and community well-being.