Tom Tiffany campaign staffer Eric Brooks cited for first-offense OWI ahead of tough Wisconsin gubernatorial race

Eric Brooks, a staff member for Republican gubernatorial candidate Tom Tiffany's campaign and an elected member of the Waukesha School Board, has been cited for a first-offense operating while intoxicated (OWI) in Wisconsin. Brooks was arrested on October 16 and formally cited on October 19, according to Eau Claire County court records.

The alleged violations, which both occurred during the October 16 incident, include operating while intoxicated and driving a vehicle without required lamps lighted. Neither Brooks nor Tiffany's campaign has issued a public statement regarding the citations. In Wisconsin, a first-offense OWI typically results in fines, revoked license, and mandatory alcohol assessment, though it is generally not considered a criminal offense unless additional circumstances apply.

Brooks' involvement in the campaign has been marked by controversy, most notably when he barred reporters from a campaign event in September due to alleged unfair coverage. This OWI offense has prompted a Waukesha parent organization to urge Brooks to step down from his position on the Waukesha School Board.