Duffy Family Ties Fuel Controversy in 7th Congressional District Race

Evita Duffy-Alfonso's defense of husband Michael Alfonso's residency raises questions about his qualifications

Mar. 12, 2026 at 5:03am

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In the crowded Republican primary for Wisconsin's 7th Congressional District, the candidacy of Michael Alfonso, husband of former Congresswoman Sean Duffy's daughter Evita Duffy-Alfonso, has sparked controversy. Evita's lengthy Facebook post defending her husband's residency in the district has raised more questions than it answered, highlighting concerns about Michael's thin resume and the influence of the Duffy family's political connections.

Why it matters

The 7th Congressional District is a key battleground, and the Republican primary will likely determine the winner in this solidly red district. Voters are scrutinizing the candidates' qualifications and ties to the district, making the debate over Michael Alfonso's residency an important factor in the race.

The details

Michael Alfonso, 26, is running in a crowded five-way Republican primary for the 7th Congressional District seat. His wife, Evita Duffy-Alfonso, recently posted a lengthy Facebook timeline defending her husband's residency in the district, which has been questioned by former conservative talk radio host Meg Ellefson. Evita's post reveals that the couple has lived in various locations, including Wausau, Madison, Hayward, and Florida, over the past several years. However, it does little to clarify Michael's work history and qualifications for Congress, which have been a point of contention.

  • Michael Alfonso last voted in Wisconsin in April 2023.
  • Evita Duffy-Alfonso hosted a podcast called 'Bongino Report Early Edition with Evita' starting in July 2024.
  • Michael Alfonso registered to vote in Florida in October 2024 and voted in the 2024 presidential election there.

The players

Michael Alfonso

A 26-year-old Republican candidate running in the crowded primary for Wisconsin's 7th Congressional District, whose residency and qualifications have been questioned.

Evita Duffy-Alfonso

The wife of Michael Alfonso and the daughter of former Congressman Sean Duffy, who has actively defended her husband's candidacy on social media.

Meg Ellefson

A former conservative talk radio host who has questioned the legitimacy of Michael Alfonso's candidacy and his ties to the 7th Congressional District.

Kevin Hermening

A Republican candidate in the 7th Congressional District primary who has a longer history of residency in the district compared to some of his opponents.

Jessi Ebben

A Republican candidate in the 7th Congressional District primary who is a recent transplant to the district, having previously lived in other parts of Wisconsin and Minnesota.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.