Tod Ohnstad

Tod Ohnstad (born May 21, 1952) is an American Democratic politician, retired machinist, and former union representative from Kenosha, Wisconsin. He served six terms as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing the Wisconsin's 65th Assembly district from 2013 to 2025.

Biography

Ohnstad was born in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and graduated from Altoona High School in 1970. He moved to Kenosha and attended the University of Wisconsin–Parkside. He worked at Kenosha Engine, first when it was operated by American Motors Corporation, then later for General Motors, and Chrysler. During his work in the auto industry, he was heavily involved with the UAW Local 72 labor union. He was a member of the executive board of the United Auto Workers from 1984 to 2004.

Ohnstad served on the Kenosha Common Council from 2008 until 2014. In August 2012, Ohnstad won the 65th District Democratic primary for Wisconsin State Assembly and did not face an opponent in the November general election. He did not face an opponent in the general election until 2020, when he defeated Republican nominee Crystal Miller.

On March 2, 2024, Ohnstad announced he would not run for re-election in 2024 and would retire at the end of his 6th term.

Electoral history Wisconsin Assembly (2012–2022) Year Election Date Elected Defeated Total Plurality 2012 Primary Democratic 2,083 73.27% Dem. 519 18.26% 2,843 1,564 Dem. 180 6.33% General Democratic 18,373 97.99% --unopposed-- 18,750 2014 General Democratic 11,599 96.93% 11,966 2016 General Democratic 16,112 97.84% 16,467 2018 General Democratic 14,456 96.82% 14,931 2020 General Democratic 14,356 60.25% Rep. 9,444 39.63% 23,829 4,912 2022 General Democratic 11,035 61.78% Rep. 6,803 38.08% 17,863 4,232