Last week, a video surfaced showing over 20 protesters delivering flowers to the residence of Wisconsin House Trustees Chairman Brian Steele, a Republican. Among the demonstrators was a figure dressed in black who walked up the driveway, mimicking a funeral procession. This individual left cardboard props with messages affixed to Steele’s front door.
Ellen Holly, the former chairman of the Walworth County Democrats, was recognized in footage shared on social media. She was seen approaching Steele’s home, accompanied by others who had protested previously.
Before this event, protesters had queued up for what they termed the “Democratic Death” funeral, a demonstration organized by grassroots advocates from Southern Wisconsin and the Working Families Party. During the protest, organizers invited police to engage in discussions, hinting at their desire for the officers to “just leave town,” as noted in a Facebook livestream. Afterward, protesters wandered across Steele’s yard, stepping off the sidewalk and taking photos in front of the house.
A shared photo displaying the faux props and their messages later attracted attention on Facebook, with one commenter even inquiring about Steele’s address. The U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) were made aware of the incident, though it’s uncertain if any protesters will face charges.
In light of a recent murder in Minnesota, discussions have intensified regarding the safety of lawmakers and their families. Steele lamented the reliance on such tactics by some groups, expressing concern over the increasing threats faced by Congressional offices, which have reportedly surged by nearly 94% compared to the previous year.
Steele, who heads the House Management Committee, collaborates with leaders from both parties to address these threats. In response to rising security concerns, Congress has increased funding for member security for fiscal year 2025, alongside boosting surveillance budgets significantly.
The protests are expected to continue, with some activists planning to gather at Steil’s upcoming city hall meeting. Prior to the event, an organizer encouraged participation on social media with the phrase “Good Trouble Lives On!” This movement is also being backed by left-leaning groups, including the Wisconsin Democrats.
Requests for comments from the USCP, the South Wisconsin Grassroots Network, and the Working Families Party have yet to receive a response.
