Roger Thompson, a farmer from Wisconsin, faced significant challenges when rising operational costs forced him to sell his family's farm. The six-generation farm had been in the family for nearly a century. Despite this setback, Thompson decided to share his story with the aim of educating others about economic policies that he believes could harm communities.
In 2024, Americans for Prosperity (AFP) highlighted Thompson's experience to oppose right of first refusal legislation in Wisconsin. This legislation would have potentially increased utility bills and living costs. Born and raised on his family's farm in Emerald, Wisconsin, Thompson had diversified into business ventures like a used car dealership and an antique store. However, by 2020, financial pressures forced him to focus solely on saving the family farm.
The rising prices of labor, machinery, and energy significantly affected small farm owners like Thompson. In 2024, he was compelled to sell the farm due to these escalating costs. Witnessing worsening inflation motivated Thompson to engage with AFP's initiatives around economic issues.
Thompson became actively involved with AFP after signing a petition supporting their efforts. He dedicated time to engaging residents about how current policies were impacting inflation rates and affecting personal finances such as retirement accounts and life savings.
During the 2023-2024 legislative session, Wisconsin proposed AB 470 legislation that would give certain utility companies monopoly power over new transmission projects by allowing only those owning existing lines to handle new projects. Megan Novak from AFP-Wisconsin stated: “This bill prioritizes utility companies over hardworking ratepayers like you and me.” She added that it would end competitive bidding and lead to higher utility bills.
AFP mobilized opposition against this bill using grassroots campaigns informed by data insights and digital strategies. Roger Thompson's narrative played a pivotal role in shifting opinions against AB 470 within the state legislature.
By sharing his story through AFP's platform, Roger exemplified how personal setbacks can be transformed into advocacy opportunities aimed at broader societal benefits.
