Michael Alfonso, a 26-year-old Republican and son-in-law of U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, is running for Congress in Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District. Alfonso has been endorsed by President Donald Trump, who called him a “MAGA warrior.” However, some prominent Republicans in the district have questioned Alfonso’s experience and qualifications for the job.
Alfonso’s Campaign
Alfonso has pointed to his youth and energy as assets in his campaign, saying he has the values of someone in their 60s. He has also emphasized his conservative credentials, citing his work on a podcast hosted by Trump supporter Dan Bongino and his endorsement by conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s Turning Point Action.
Alfonso’s campaign has been boosted by his father-in-law’s influence and fundraising efforts. Duffy has jetted back to the district to campaign and raise money for Alfonso, and has tapped $1 million from his old congressional account to support Alfonso’s candidacy.
Primary Opposition
Alfonso faces opposition in the Republican primary from several candidates, including Kevin Hermening, a former Marine who was held hostage by Iran for 444 days. Hermening has deep ties to the district and has worked as a financial planner and served on a local school board.
Other candidates in the primary include Ashley Furniture executive Jessi Ebben, dog musher Niina Baum, and accountant and real estate broker Don Raihala.
Despite Trump’s endorsement, some Republicans in the district have expressed skepticism about Alfonso’s candidacy. Iron County Republican Party Chair Tanner Hiller accused Duffy of trying to use his connections to get his son-in-law elected, saying “I think what they’re doing is wrong morally.”
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.