Wisconsin Democrats Accuse Ex-Caucus Member of Threatening to Kill Colleagues
MADISON, Wis. — Democratic leaders in the Wisconsin Assembly are accusing state Rep. Sylvia Ortiz-Velez of threatening to kill three of her colleagues, prompting a sharp rebuke, investigations, and questions over her future in the caucus. Ortiz-Velez, who represents central Milwaukee, has denied the claim, describing her words as “poorly worded hyperbole” in interviews with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and Wisconsin Right Now.
Allegations and Caucus Fallout
The accusations surfaced after Ortiz-Velez reportedly made a comment about shooting three caucus members with whom she had disagreements, according to NBC News. Democratic leadership said they could not ignore the remark, especially in the wake of the June assassination of Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband.
On Thursday, party leaders confirmed Ortiz-Velez was leaving the Democratic caucus. She later clarified to the Journal Sentinel that she still considers herself a Democrat, meaning the move does not affect the chamber’s power balance. Republicans currently hold a 54-45 majority.
Leadership Response and Capitol Security
Minority Leader Greta Neubauer, Assistant Minority Leader Kalan Haywood, and Caucus Chair Lisa Subeck said in a joint statement that the matter had been referred to the Legislature’s human resources office and reported to the Capitol Police.
Ortiz-Velez told Wisconsin Right Now she was barred from entering the State Capitol building on Wednesday but said her access was restored the following day after Assembly Speaker Robin Vos’s office intervened. When reached by the Associated Press, she refused to comment and hung up on a reporter’s call.
Ortiz-Velez’s Defense and Ongoing Feud
In her interviews, Ortiz-Velez claimed she has endured years of “vicious, vile and cruel” treatment from fellow Democrats and argued that her statement was exaggerated rhetoric, not a genuine threat. She promised not to use such language in the future.
The controversy comes amid a personal feud with Rep. Priscilla Prado, who represents Milwaukee’s west side. Ortiz-Velez accused Prado of undermining her by introducing a resolution honoring Hispanic veterans — a sensitive issue since Ortiz-Velez’s late husband was a Hispanic veteran. In an email circulated to the full Legislature on August 29, Ortiz-Velez wrote: “Priscilla, you are a big liar!!!!!!! Your envy is so apparent! Everyone sees what you have done here!! It’s sick!” The email exchange was later shared with the Associated Press.
When asked by reporters if Ortiz-Velez had threatened her, Prado declined to elaborate, muttering that there were “various” targets.
Next Steps in the Legislature
Despite the turmoil, Republicans are moving forward with a resolution authored by Ortiz-Velez recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month. Speaker Vos confirmed to NBC News that the measure would be part of Thursday’s floor session, even though Prado had introduced a similar resolution that was left off the agenda.
Ortiz-Velez has stated she intends to remain a Democrat, but her separation from the caucus and the intensity of the accusations leave her role in the Legislature under increasing scrutiny.
Wisconsin’s political climate remains tense as lawmakers brace for a contentious fall session. The fallout from the Ortiz-Velez controversy is likely to fuel debates about party unity, legislative security, and how political disputes are handled within the State Capitol. For continuing updates on Midwest politics and local developments, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.