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Democrat Accused of Threats, Claims Hyperbole Amid Caucus Dispute

9/9/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Wisconsin Democrats accuse Rep. Sylvia Ortiz-Velez of threatening to kill three colleagues; she calls it "poorly worded hyperbole."
She recently left the Democratic caucus amid disputes with members.
Democratic leaders reported the allegations to human resources and Capitol Police.
Ortiz-Velez claims to have faced years of mistreatment from her caucus.
She plans to stay a Democrat, asserting her departure won't affect the Assembly's power balance.

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Story summary

Wisconsin Democrats accuse Rep. Sylvia Ortiz-Velez of threatening to kill three colleagues; she calls it "poorly worded hyperbole."
She recently left the Democratic caucus amid disputes with members.
Democratic leaders reported the allegations to human resources and Capitol Police.
Ortiz-Velez claims to have faced years of mistreatment from her caucus.
She plans to stay a Democrat, asserting her departure won't affect the Assembly's power balance.