Lorenzo's Story | Lorenzo For Congress

MEET LORENZO SANTOS

I grew up in a military family, where service was not just encouraged, it was expected. From an early age, I moved around the world, experiencing different cultures, communities, and perspectives. Those formative years shaped my worldview and instilled in me a deep belief that leadership carries responsibility, and that ideas...when championed with conviction, can unite people across differences. Service has been part of my life from the very beginning.

That foundation led me to the United States Naval Academy, where I graduated in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science, concentrating in International Relations. At Annapolis, I refined the values I had grown up with - discipline, resilience, and integrity— while developing the intellectual and strategic framework to lead in complex environments.

After commissioning as a Surface Warfare Officer, I served aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Oscar Austin (DDG-79). Leading sailors at sea and managing high-stakes operations reinforced my understanding that leadership is about clarity of mission, trust within a team, and the ability to inspire others to rise to challenges greater than themselves.

When I transitioned from active duty in 2016, I felt called to tackle a different kind of national challenge: the growing crisis of news deserts. I founded Rhetor News, an online media startup dedicated to expanding access to reliable local journalism in underserved communities. Building that organization allowed me to champion an idea I believe deeply in—that strong democracies depend on informed citizens—and to translate vision into action.

From 2017 to 2021, I worked for DuraVent Group, a leading HVAC and Hearth manufacturer, serving as North Central Regional Sales Manager and leading sales operations across the Midwest. There, I focused on building high-performing teams, strengthening strategic partnerships, and driving growth. Whether in uniform, in entrepreneurship, or in business leadership, I have consistently sought to bring people together around clear goals and bold ideas.

Committed to strengthening my expertise in national security and resilience, I earned my Master of Professional Studies in Homeland Security from George Washington University in 2022. Today, I serve as Deputy Emergency Manager for Racine County and as an Intelligence Officer in the Navy Reserve—continuing a lifelong commitment to preparedness, public safety, and service.

Beyond my professional roles, I remain deeply engaged in civic leadership. I serve as Chair of the Young Democrats of Wisconsin, sit on the board of the Racine Kiwanis Club, and am a member of the Racine Founder’s Rotary Club, the Truman National Security Project Defense Council, and the American Legion, among others. In each of these spaces, I work to advance thoughtful ideas, build coalitions, and turn dialogue into meaningful impact.

Service shaped my upbringing, leadership shaped my career, and championing ideas that strengthen communities continues to drive my work. Whether at sea, in the boardroom, or in public service, I remain committed to leading with purpose and inspiring others to build something greater than themselves.

In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, exploring new restaurants, and performing as a karaoke and open-format DJ throughout Wisconsin—creative outlets that remind me that leadership, at its core, is about connection.