LA CROSSE, Wis. — As Wisconsin families pay more than $4 a gallon, their highest prices in four years, Opportunity Wisconsin will hand out 50 free $20 gas cards Friday in La Crosse to help residents cope with the crunch. The giveaway comes after Rep. Derrick Van Orden voted to give the White House a free hand to continue the war in Iran, which new reporting shows has already cost the average American an additional $450 in energy costs.
Gas prices in Wisconsin have climbed more than a dollar per gallon over the past year, and experts say relief is unlikely until at least mid-2027. Rather than taking action to lower costs for his constituents, Van Orden voted to rubber-stamp a billion-dollar-a-day war that is making things more expensive at the pump and on grocery store shelves.
“Derrick Van Orden had a chance to stand with his constituents and rein in a war that is draining their wallets every time they fill up their tank — and he said no,” said Opportunity Wisconsin Program Director Meghan Roh. “Sky-high gas prices are only the latest example of Derrick Van Orden voting to raise costs. He has also voted for costly tariffs that are driving up costs on everyday items, including groceries, while forcing his constituents to pay more out of pocket by voting to slash health care coverage and food assistance programs.”
The gas cards will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, or until supplies run out. Opportunity Wisconsin, State Rep. Tara Johnson, community leaders, and constituents of Rep. Van Orden will host a press conference before the giveaway begins.
Gas Card Giveaway and Press Event
WHO:
Opportunity Wisconsin
State Rep. Tara Johnson
Third District Constituents
WHEN: Friday, June 5, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM (Or until supplies run out)
WHERE: Myrick Park, 789 Myrick Park Dr, La Crosse, WI 54601
MEDIA RSVP: Media planning to cover the event should RSVP to press@opportunitywisconsin.org
