Steven Olikara

Steven Olikara is an American political commentator, civic engagement advocate, and former political candidate. He is known for his involvement in civic engagement initiatives and for his candidacy in the 2022 Democratic primary election for the United States Senate in Wisconsin.

Early life and education Olikara grew up in the Milwaukee area of Wisconsin and attended Brookfield East High School. He later attended the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he studied political science and environmental studies. While at the university, he participated in student leadership activities and was selected as a student speaker during a presidential event featuring Barack Obama. These efforts coincided with the development and expansion of cross-partisan caucuses and networks of younger lawmakers in Congress and state legislatures. During the campaign, he advocated political reform proposals including campaign finance changes and electoral reforms. He participated in debates and interviews with Wisconsin media outlets throughout the election cycle.

Olikara was unsuccessful in the Democratic primary election, which was won by Mandela Barnes. The organization's work was later discussed by the Chronicle of Philanthropy in coverage of efforts to address political polarization through media and entertainment.

Media and public commentary Olikara contributes regularly on CNN , CBS News , and other national news outlets. He has appeared as a commentator on political and public affairs issues in national media outlets.