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PEOPLE OVER PROFITS

I am a public servant who has and always will prioritize my community over big money and corporate interests. I’m a listener, a doer, and a leader grounded in empathy and conviction. As City Council President, a mental health counselor, a small business owner, and a mom, I bring a real-world perspective to the challenges our communities face. I’m running for Congress to rise above the chaos and put PEOPLE first, not profits. “I believe leadership should be rooted in service not self interest.” -Emily Berge

Real Change

I’m running for Congress because it’s time for a change. The 3rd CD deserves leadership that brings people together, rather than tearing us apart. Leadership rooted in service, not self-interest. Leadership that understands what folks are actually going through. My commitment to service began early, from helping flood victims in North Dakota and fixing homes in Appalachia as a teenager to my time in AmeriCorps after college. This dedication continued as I volunteered with my children’s school and community groups, and now, I’m honored to serve our community as City Council President. I have led our community during real crises: a global pandemic, the shuttering of area hospitals, and attacks on inclusive community values. Governing experience means I don’t have the luxury of theory, I have to deliver real results for real people. We face urgent challenges, and with my experience I am ready to tackle them head-on to ensure: Accessible Healthcare: I will work to ensure everyone has access to affordable healthcare, including mental health and addiction treatment. Affordable Housing: The dream of homeownership shouldn’t be out of reach. I will work to make housing affordable for all, regardless of income. Clean and Safe Water: I have seen the impacts of toxins in our water from nitrates to PFAS. I will work towards solutions to make sure everyone has access to safe water, no matter where you live. Protecting our Civil Rights: I will be a staunch defender of our fundamental freedoms and civil rights. Every individual deserves equal justice and opportunity. I will fight to ensure these core American values are upheld for all. You’ll always know where I stand. I’m firm in my values and committed to doing what’s right for the people of the 3rd District.

Emily Berge is a dedicated public servant and mental health professional with a deep commitment to the well-being and prosperity of her community in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. With over two decades of experience in both public service and counseling, Emily brings a unique blend of leadership, compassion, and practical problem-solving to her work.

Professional Background

Emily has served on the Eau Claire City Council since 2018, representing District 1. In 2022, she was elected by her peers as Vice President of the Council, and in 2023, she was elected city wide to the role of Council President. Her tenure on the council has been marked by significant strides in affordable housing, sustainability initiatives, and efforts to enhance Eau Claire’s appeal as a place to live, work, and visit. In addition to her public service, Emily is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned her master’s degree in mental health counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Stout and has been providing mental health services in Eau Claire for 20 years. Her counseling practice focuses on supporting individuals through anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, and challenging family dynamics.

Leadership and Advocacy

Emily’s leadership extends beyond local government. In 2020, she was appointed to the Board of Directors for the League of Wisconsin Municipalities, a statewide organization that offers resources and advocacy for Wisconsin cities. By 2022, she was elected Vice President of the League and served as President from 2023 to 2024. In these roles, Emily collaborates with policy experts and leaders across the state to develop solutions to challenges facing Wisconsin municipalities.

Community Engagement

Emily is deeply rooted in the Eau Claire community, residing on the city’s Northside with her family. Her commitment to fostering community connection and engagement is evident in her initiatives to create accessible public spaces and promote inclusivity. Emily believes that such efforts not only enhance the quality of life but also contribute to the mental well-being and resilience of the community.

“There is chaos in Washington—and people here at home feel it every day. I’m not running to add to the noise. I’m running to bring stability, to be a bridge between our communities and a Congress that’s lost touch. It’s time we stop settling for broken politics—and start building the future we deserve.” -EMILY BERGE