Van Orden Criticizes Cooke Over Gun Policy Shift
The Republican candidate targeted his opponent's recent reversal regarding a proposed ban on assault rifles.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Elections
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Republican candidate Derrick Van Orden criticized his opponent, Rebecca Cooke, following her statement that she no longer supports a ban on assault rifles. The exchange highlights sharp contrasts in gun policy between the two candidates as they campaign across Wisconsin.
Why it matters
The candidates represent divergent views on gun control, with their records and public statements drawing attention to how firearm regulations might affect rural communities in Wisconsin. These policy positions are central to the debate over the future of gun rights in the state.
The National Rifle Association assigned Derrick Van Orden an A rating and Rebecca Cooke an F rating based on candidate questionnaires and voting records. Cooke continues to support universal background checks and red-flag laws.
The players
Derrick Van Orden
He is a Republican candidate currently campaigning for a seat in Wisconsin.
Rebecca Cooke
She is a candidate seeking office who recently adjusted her public position on specific gun control measures.
Rob Kovac
He is a supporter of Derrick Van Orden who emphasizes the importance of firearm access in rural areas.
National Rifle Association
This organization advocates for gun rights and issues ratings to political candidates based on their policy stances.
The details
During a debate, Rebecca Cooke clarified that her stance has shifted and she no longer backs a ban on assault rifles. While criticizing this pivot, Van Orden used a campaign stop in La Crosse to emphasize his alignment with the priorities of rural gun owners.
Timeline
The candidates participated in a debate on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
Derrick Van Orden conducted a campaign event in La Crosse on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
Political Context
Opponents of Cooke argue that her policy reversal is politically motivated, while supporters of stricter regulations push back by emphasizing the public safety necessity of background checks and red-flag laws. This debate mirrors the national partisan divide over the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.
The differing platforms could lead to significant changes in local firearm regulations depending on which candidate wins the election. Residents should evaluate how each candidate's stance on background checks and red-flag laws will influence their personal rights and community safety.
The takeaway
Voters are encouraged to review the specific policy records of both candidates to understand the practical differences in their approaches to gun legislation. Assessing these differences is essential for citizens who prioritize specific firearm regulations in their legislative representation.
Further reading
For more on the state's upcoming races, visit the Wisconsin Elections portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WIZM 92.3FM 106.7FM 1410AM.
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Do you trust that candidates' shifts on gun policy are genuine rather than election-season pandering?
