Transportation Secretary Resigns for UW-Madison Job

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Craig Thompson, Wisconsin's transportation secretary, is set to resign next month to take on a new role at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The announcement from Gov. Tony Evers' office revealed that Thompson will leave his position on September 11 to become the vice chancellor for university relations at the state's flagship university. His departure marks a significant transition, as Deputy Transportation Secretary Kristina Boardman will step in as his successor, making history as the first woman to hold the transportation secretary position. Thompson was appointed by Evers in December 2018, shortly before the governor began his first term. His confirmation faced scrutiny from Republican senators due to his previous lobbying work for the Transportation Development Association of Wisconsin, which advocates for increased taxes and fees for road funding. Despite these concerns, he was confirmed in 2021 and has since overseen substantial improvements to the state's infrastructure, including over 7,400 miles of road and 1,780 bridges, all without raising the state gas tax, which has remained unchanged since 2006. During his tenure, Thompson also supported increases in vehicle title and registration fees as part of Evers' first state budget, contributing to road funding. The federal bipartisan infrastructure package signed by President Biden in 2021 further bolstered financial resources for roadwork in Wisconsin. Thompson, a graduate of UW-Madison, will succeed Charles Hoslet, who retired earlier this year, and will manage the university's relationships with various stakeholders.