Bernie Newman is a lifelong resident of Washington County whose roots run deep in the communities, traditions, and values of southeastern Wisconsin. Growing up outdoors hunting, fishing, and trapping, Bernie developed an early appreciation for Wisconsin’s natural resources. He understands the importance of conservation, stewardship, and personal responsibility. These are the values that continue to shape his outlook today.
Bernie, a 1984 graduate of Washington High School in Germantown, developed an interest in public affairs at a young age. While still in high school, he regularly accompanied an elderly neighbor to local village board meetings as residents pushed back against efforts to force Germantown into the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewer District. Those experiences sparked his belief that local voices matter and that citizens deserve a meaningful role in the decisions that affect their communities. During his senior year, Bernie received statewide recognition for writing the top news story in a Wisconsin school newspaper, an investigative piece highlighting asbestos in district buildings.
Bernie’s work ethic was shaped early through hands-on experience and hard work. He spent two summers working for the Department of Natural Resources at a youth conservation camp in northern Wisconsin, performing demanding physical labor and learning discipline and responsibility. After graduating from high school, he worked as a garbage collector before earning a diploma in Urban Forestry from MATC–Mequon.
For more than three decades, Bernie built his career in landscaping, spending nearly thirty years with one company and working primarily throughout Washington County. His experience included landscape design, planting, maintenance, hardscape construction, and crew leadership. Working directly with homeowners, businesses, and communities gave Bernie firsthand insight into the everyday concerns of working families and small communities.
Family and community have always been at the center of Bernie’s life. He married Brigitte Dobberstein in January of 1995, and together they raised twins, a son and daughter, while making Washington County their home. Beyond his career, Bernie has spent years volunteering and serving his community, organizing fundraisers, supporting veterans and youth programs, helping coordinate local events and ceremonies, and remaining actively involved in civic and conservation organizations.
Bernie currently serves as President of Common Sense Citizens of Washington County, a position he has held for nearly a decade. His public service also includes membership on the City of West Bend Plan Commission, serving as Washington County Chairman of the Wisconsin Conservation Congress, and chairing the County Deer Advisory Council. He is also a longtime member of the Republican Party, the NRA, the West Bend Moose Lodge, and a lifetime member of the Old Farmers Antique Club.
Bernie believes public service is about listening, showing up, and standing up for the people you represent. His campaign for the 58th Assembly District is rooted in the same principles that have guided his life: hard work, honesty, community involvement, and a commitment to making sure local voices are heard.
Bernie Newman For Assembly 