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Staff Snapshots | Justin Bielinski

October 25, 2023
  • Hometown: West Allis, Wis.
  • Role: Communications director for Wisconsin Sen. Chris Larson
  • Years of legislative service: Three

“People who give advice generally have their own motives for doing so. Being able to unpack those motives is more important than any actual advice I’ve ever received.”

justin bielinski wisconsin
Bielinski

Why did you choose to work at the Legislature?

Coming from a background in education and community organizing, I earned my master’s degree in political science with an eye toward serving in public office. After losing a tough election for a municipal race, I was fortunate to get to work with one of my legislative heroes at the state level.

What skill or talent are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of being able to distill complex subjects into simple, easy-to-understand terms. Fewer words are better 90% of the time.

What’s the best advice you were ever given?

People who give advice generally have their own motives for doing so. Being able to unpack those motives is more important than any actual advice I’ve ever received.

Who or what inspires you?

Shigeru Miyamoto, best known as the creator of Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda series. Being able to create interactive worlds that inspire creativity and imagination within the context of ever-changing technical limitations inspires me to think of creative solutions to seemingly unsolvable problems.

What’s one thing you love about your state?

The summers—there’s nothing better than June in Milwaukee.

What are you currently reading/listening to/watching?

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, on Nintendo Switch.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Use the email icon above to suggest a legislative staffer for the “Staff Snapshots” series.

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