Rep. Vinnie Miresse, right, is sworn into his role as District 71 Assemblyman during a symbolic ceremony by Judge Louis Molepske, Jr., on Jan. 10. (Metro Wire photo)

Miresse celebrates symbolic swearing-in, looks to bridge partisan divides

January 11, 2025

By Brandi Makuski

STEVENS POINT – Rep. Vincent Miresse, D-Stevens Point, marked his symbolic swearing-in at the Portage County Courthouse on Jan. 10, officiated by Portage County Circuit Judge Louis Molepske, Jr.

Miresse was officially sworn in on Jan. 6 at the State Capitol, becoming the new state representative for Wisconsin’s 71st Assembly District.

About two dozen visitors, including Miresse’s friends, family, and members of the Democratic Party, gathered in the Branch II courtroom to witness the ceremony.

Molepske, a former state representative for the 71st Assembly District, held the seat for a decade before stepping down in 2013 to become Portage Co. District Attorney. He was later elected as a Portage County Circuit judge, continuing his public service in a judicial role. During the ceremony, Molepske reflected on his own experience representing the district and recounted his swearing-in on the courthouse steps in 2003 following a narrow election victory.

“It’s a privilege and honor to hold any elected office, especially one where you represent the voices of so many,” Molepske said. “Exercise that privilege thoughtfully as you work on policies and serve on committees.”

Miresse, a former Portage County Board supervisor, was elected in November, defeating opponent Bob Pahmeier by a vote of 18,598 to 16,280. He succeeds longtime Rep. Katrina Shankland, who served the district for 12 years.

In his brief remarks, Miresse expressed gratitude to his supporters and family. He said he is eager to begin his legislative work, particularly in areas related to the environment and outdoor recreation.

“I’m really looking forward to working with my colleagues to address issues affecting our environment, parks, lakes, rivers, and streams,” Miresse said. “These are areas I’m passionate about, and I hope to bring creative ideas and a thoughtful approach to preserving our natural resources.”

Miresse said he hopes to bridge the partisan divide in Madison by fostering collaboration between Democrats and Republicans. “We’re a purple state, and I hope to build meaningful relationships across the aisle to get good things done for the people of Wisconsin,” he said.

Miresse will serve on several key committees, including the Committee on Environment, the Committee on Forestry, Parks and Outdoor Recreation, and the Committee on Sporting Heritage.

“Ultimately, this is about service and finding common ground,” he said. “I want to build deep, meaningful relationships with the people of the 71st District and throughout the state.”

Miresse concluded by thanking Molepske for his remarks and his family for their support. “Without you, I’d probably be wearing jeans and a sports jacket right now,” he quipped.

Miresse officially began his term representing the district, which covers parts of Portage and Adams counties, on Jan. 6. He also plans to continue in his role as Portage Co. Board Supervisor for District 1.