Van Orden and Cooke Debate Healthcare at Wisconsin Forum
Republican Representative Derrick Van Orden and Democratic challenger Rebecca Cooke debated healthcare access and hospital closures during a candidate forum in Eau Claire.
Republican incumbent Derrick Van Orden and Democratic challenger Rebecca Cooke debated the decline of healthcare options and rising medical costs during a candidate forum on October 20 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The event, hosted by the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce at Chippewa Valley Technical College and broadcast by WEAU, allowed voters in Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District to hear the candidates' positions before the November 3 midterm elections.
Van Orden defended his legislative record, asserting that healthcare programs are critically important and that he has worked to ensure their future funding. Cooke countered by citing specific healthcare losses during Van Orden's tenure, including the closure of hospitals in Chippewa Falls and Sacred Heart, as well as the loss of labor and delivery services in Menomonie.
Beyond healthcare, the candidates addressed other regional concerns including inflation, agriculture, housing, and property taxes.
