Wisconsin Elections 2006

 The Hamilton Consulting Group

August 2006

© 2006 The Hamilton Consulting Group

Introduction

State Assembly Races

State Senate Races

2006 Primary Results

Governor and Attorney General Candidates Profiles

State Assembly Races 

Members of the Wisconsin State Assembly are elected to two-year terms. All 99 of the Assembly Representatives are up for re-election this fall. Republicans currently hold a 59-39 majority with one vacancy in the Assembly and are looking to increase its largest majority in decades that number or at least hold. Democrats challenge is to increase its numbers outside of urban areas. This election year, we have 11 open Assembly seats – 10 of which are being vacated by Republicans, which could give the Assembly Democrats a chance to improve its numbers. The breakdown of the Assembly seats by partisan makeup is as follows:

Open Competitive

• 29^th Assembly District – vacancy created by Rep. Andy Lamb (R-Menomonie)

• 37^th Assembly District – vacancy created by Rep. David Ward (R-Fort Atkinson)

• 54^th Assembly District – vacancy created by Rep. Gregg Underheim (R-Oshkosh)

Republican Protect

• 28^th Assembly District – Incumbent Mark Pettis, a Republican from Siren faces a challenge by Polk County Sheriff Ann Hraychuck, a Democrat from Balsam Lake.

• 42^nd Assembly District – Incumbent Republican Doc Hines of Endeavour faces Democrat Tim Henney of Portage.

• 43^rd Assembly District – Incumbent Republican Debi Towns faces Whitewater Democrat Kim Hixson.

• 47^th Assembly District – Incumbent Republican Eugene Hahn will face either Dan Jardine or Meagan Yost in the general election.

• 49^th Assembly District – Incumbent Gabe Loeffelholz (R-Platteville) is being challenged by Democrat Phil Garthwaite also of Platteville.

• 51^st Assembly District – Incumbent Republican Steve Freese of Dodgeville faces Democrat Steve Hilgenberg, also of Dodgeville.

• 67^th Assembly District – Incumbent Jeff Wood (R-Chippewa Falls) is being challenged by Democrat Roberta Rasmus, also of Chippewa Falls.

• 68^th Assembly District – Incumbent Terry Moulton (R-Chippewa Falls) faces Eau Claire Democrat Michael Turner.

• 80^th Assembly District – Incumbent Brett Davis (R-Oregon), faces either Wally Fellows or Janis Ringhand in the general election.

• 87^th Assembly District – Incumbent Mary Williams (R-Medford) faces either Ladysmith Democrat Dewey Floberg or Park Falls Democrat Judy Reas.

• 88^th Assembly District – Incumbent Republican Judy Krawczyk of Green Bay faces either Dan Aude or James Soletski of Green Bay in the general election.

• 90^th Assembly District – Incumbent Karl Van Roy (R-Green Bay) faces either Carl Arnoldi or Gary Froseth, both Green Bay Democrats, in the general election.

• 96^th Assembly District – Incumbent Republican Lee Nerison (R-Prairie du Chien) faces Viroqua Democrat Gail Frie in a rematch from 2004.

Safe Republican

• 1st Assembly District – Rep. Gary Bies (R-Sister Bay)

• 2^nd Assembly District – Rep. Frank Lasee (R-Ledgeview)

• 3^rd Assembly District – Rep. All Ott (R-Forest Junction)

• 4^th Assembly District – Rep. Phil Montgomery (R-Ashewaubenon)

• 6^th Assembly District – Open seat. 4-way Republican primary. One Democrat in the general.

• 14^th Assembly District – Rep. Leah Vukmir (R-Wauwatosa)

• 21^st Assembly District – Rep. Mark Honadel (R-South Milwaukee)

• 23^rd Assembly District – Open seat. Two in Republican primary. Three in Democratic primary.

• 24^th Assembly District – Rep. Sue Jeskewitz (R-Menomonee Falls)

• 27^th Assembly District – Rep. Steve Kestell (R-Elkhart Lake)

• 30^th Assembly District – Rep. Kitty Rhoades (R-Hudson)

• 31^st Assembly District – Rep. Steve Nass (R-Whitewater)

• 32^nd Assembly District – Rep. Tom Lothian (R-Williams Bay)

• 33^rd Assembly District – Rep. Scott Newcomer (R-Hartland)

• 34^th Assembly District – Rep. Dan Meyer (R-Eagle River)

• 35^th Assembly District – Rep. Don Friske (R-Merrill)

• 36^th Assembly District – Rep. Jeff Mursau (R-Crivitz)

• 38^th Assembly District – Rep. Joel Kleefisch (R-Oconomowoc)

• 39^th Assembly District – Rep. Jeff Fitzgerald (R-Horicon)

• 40^th Assembly District – Open seat. Three-way Republican primary. One Democratic candidate.

• 41^st Assembly District – Rep. Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan)

• 50^th Assembly District – Rep. Sheryl Albers (R-Reedsburg)

• 52^nd Assembly District – Rep. John Townsend (R-Fond du Lac)

• 53^rd Assembly District – Rep. Carol Owens (R-Oshkosh)

• 55^th Assembly District – Rep. Dean Kaufert (R-Neenah)

• 56^th Assembly District – Open seat. Three-way Republican primary. One Democratic candidate.

• 57^th Assembly District – Rep. Steve Wieckert (R-Appleton)

• 58^th Assembly District – Rep. Pat Strachota (R-West Bend)

• 59^th Assembly District – Rep. Dan LeMahieu (R-Oostburg)

• 60^th Assembly District – Rep. Mark Gottlieb (R-Port Washington)

• 63^rd Assembly District – Rep. Robin Vos (R-Racine)

• 66^th Assembly District – Rep. Samantha Kerkman (R-Burlington)

• 69^th Assembly District – Rep. Scott Suder (R-Abbotsford)

• 82^nd Assembly District – Rep. Jeff Stone (R-Greenfield)

• 83^rd Assembly District – Rep. Scott Gunderson (R-Waterford)

• 84^th Assembly District – Rep. Mark Gundrum (R-New Berlin)

• 86^th Assembly District – Rep. Jerry Petrowski (R-Marathon)

• 89^th Assembly District – Open seat. Former Republican State Senator running in Republican primary.

• 92^nd Assembly District – Rep. Terry Musser (R-Melrose)

• 93^rd Assembly District – Rep. Robin Kreibich (R-Eau Claire)

• 94^th Assembly District – Rep. Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem)

• 97^th Assembly District – Open seat. Vacated by Rep. Ann Nischke

• 98^th Assembly District – Open seat. Vacated by Rep. Scott Jensen

• 99^th Assembly District – Rep. Don Pridemore (R-Hartford)

Democrat Protect

• 5^th Assembly District – Incumbent Democrat Tom Nelson faces Green Bay Republican Jim Reigel.

• 13^th Assembly District – Incumbent David Cullen (D-Milwaukee) faces Republican Rick Baas.

• 25^th Assembly District – Incumbent Democrat Bob Ziegelbauer of Manitowoc, faces Republican Paul Tittl, also of Manitowoc.

• 62^nd Assembly District – Open seat created by Rep. John Lehman, who is running for State Senate.

• 85^th Assembly District – Incumbent Democrat Donna Seidel of Wausau is being challenged by Schofield Republican Bryan Rasmussen.

Safe Democrat

• 7^th Assembly District – Rep. Peggy Krusick (D-Milwaukee)

• 8^th Assembly District – Rep. Pedro Colon (D-Milwaukee)

• 9^th Assembly District – Rep. Josh Zepnick (D-Milwaukee)

• 10^th Assembly District – Rep. Polly Williams (D-Milwaukee)

• 11^th Assembly District – Rep. Jason Fields (D-Milwaukee)

• 12^th Assembly District – Rep. Fred Kessler (D-Milwaukee)

• 15^th Assembly District – Rep. Tony Staskunas (D-West Allis)

• 16^th Assembly District – Rep. Leon Young (D-Milwaukee)

• 17^th Assembly District – Rep. Barbara Toles (D-Milwaukee)

• 18^th Assembly District – Rep. Tamara Grigsby (D-Milwaukee)

• 19^th Assembly District – Rep. Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee)

• 20^th Assembly District – Rep. Christine Sinicki (D-Milwaukee)

• 22^nd Assembly District – Rep. Sheldon Wasserman (D-Milwaukee)

• 26^th Assembly District – Rep. Terry Van Akkeren (D-Sheboygan)

• 44^th Assembly District – Rep. Mike Sheridan (D-Janesville)

• 45^th Assembly District – Rep. Chuck Benedict (D-Beloit)

• 46^th Assembly District – Rep. Gary Hebl (D-Sun Prairie)

• 48^th Assembly District – Rep. Joe Parisi (D-Monona)

• 61^st Assembly District – Rep. Bob Turner (D-Racine)

• 64^th Assembly District – Rep. Jim Kreuser (D-Kenosha)

• 65^th Assembly District – Rep. John Steinbrink (D-Pleasant Prairie)

• 70^th Assembly District – Rep. Amy Sue Vruwink (D-Milladore)

• 71^st Assembly District – Rep. Louis Molepske (D-Stevens Point)

• 72^nd Assembly District – Rep. Marlin Schneider (D-Wisconsin Rapids)

• 73^rd Assembly District – Rep. Frank Boyle (D-Superior)

• 74^th Assembly District – Rep. Gary Sherman (D-Port Wing)

• 75^th Assembly District – Rep. Mary Hubler (D-Rice Lake)

• 76^th Assembly District – Rep. Terese Berceau (D-Madison)

• 77^th Assembly District – Rep. Spencer Black (D-Madison)

• 78^th Assembly District – Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison)

• 79^th Assembly District – Rep. Sondy Pope-Roberts (D-Verona)

• 81^st Assembly District – Rep. Dave Travis (D-Westport)

• 91^st Assembly District – Rep. Barbara Gronemus (D-Whitehall)

• 95^th Assembly District – Rep. Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse)

Open Competitive Districts

Assembly District 29

This swing seat was vacated by one-term Rep. Andy Lamb (R-Menomonie). Several candidates have announced their intentions for the seat setting up both a Republican and Democrat primary. The announced candidates are:

Republican John Murtha of Baldwin. Murtha is the owner of Murtha Sanitation providing roll-off sanitation boxes to area businesses, homes, contractors and farms. He is a fourth generation resident of St. Croix County.

Murtha faces fellow Republican Rob Stafsholt of New Richmond in the primary election. Stafsholt is a farmer, small business owner, mortgage broker and real estate investor and is a life-long resident of the New Richmond area.

New Richmond Democrat Terry Kittel has been an American Government and U.S.  History teacher for 27 years. He will face Woodville Democrat Craig Mohn in the primary.

Assembly District 37

This seat was vacated by David Ward (R-Fort Atkinson) who resigned to pursue opportunities in the private sector.

Republican Greg Gasper of Fort Atkinson is a residential and commercial real estate broker and aide to Sen. Joe Leibham.

Joe Hermanny, a Republican from Lake Mills is a small business owner and former Flight Officer with the United States Air Force.

Republican Dennis Lund of Cambridgeis a farmer on a primarily cash grain-beef farm and Chair of the Christiana Town Board.

Democrat Walt Christensen of Koshkonong  is currently a town supervisor.

Andy Jorgenson, a Democrat from Fort Atkinson, is currently employed by General Motors in Janesville and an active member of the UAW Local 95.

Assembly District 54

This seat was vacated upon the announced retirement of incumbent Gregg Underheim (R-Oshkosh).

Democrat Gordon Hintz of Oshkosh is a former congressional aide and municipal consultant. He has also taught American Government at UW-Oshkosh.

Oshkosh Republican Julie Leschke is a member of the Winnebago County Board of Supervisors and is currently enrolled in the MBA program at UW-Oshkosh. She faces Larry Didlo, an Oshkosh Republican and semi-retired secondary substitute teacher in the primary.

Republican Protect

Assembly District 28

Incumbent Mark Pettis (R-Hertel) was born in Osceola, Dec. 18, 1950. He is married and has two children and four grandchildren. Pettis is a graduate of Osceola H.S. and attended U.S. Navy school and Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College. He is a former small business owner and salesman, Vietnam Era veteran, and served in U.S. Navy. Pettis was first elected to the Assembly in 1998 and now chairs the Tourism Committee.

Pettis is being challenged by Democrat Ann Hraychuck of Balsam Lake. Hraychuck is a former Polk County Sheriff and Hunter Safety Education instructor.

Assembly District 42

Incumbent J.A. "Doc" Hines (R-Oxford) was born in West Salem, Ohio on May 1, 1927. He is married and has five children. Hines is a graduate of Homer Rural School, Homerville, Ohio and received his D.V.M. at Ohio State University in 1953. Hines is a veterinarian, beef farmer and bed and breakfast owner/operator. Hines is a World War II veteran, serving in the Army from 1945-1947. Hines was first elected to the Assembly in a November 2001 special election. Hines is currently chair of the Public Health Committee.

Hines is being challenged by Democrat Tim Henney of Portage. Henney challenged Hines in the 2001 special election and the 2004 general election.

Assembly District 43

Incumbent Debi Towns (R-Janesville) was born in Sycamore, Illinois on Feb. 12, 1956. She is married and has four children. A graduate of Edgerton H.S. in 1974, she received her B.S.B.A. from Cardinal Stritch College (Milwaukee) in 1996 and M.S.E. UW-Whitewater in 1999. She attended UW-Oshkosh and UW-Madison. Towns is the owner of family dairy farm, is a former business manager for Brodhead schools, and is a financial consultant for the Dept. of Public Instruction. She was first elected to the Assembly in 2002.

Whitewater Democrats Kim Hixson and John Stellmacher will square off in the primary election. Hixson is an associate professor at UW-Whitewater and currently serves on the Whitewater Common Council. Stellmacher is a graduate assistant with the College of Business and Economics.

Assembly District 47

Incumbent Gene Hahn (R-Cambria) was born in Milwaukee, July 21, 1929. He is married and has four children. Hahn is a graduate of Cambria H.S. and attended UW College of Agriculture in 1947-48. He is a farmer and was first elected to the Assembly in 1990.

Democrat Meagan Yost of Poynette created and operated a wholesale/retail gift business with wholesale accounts nationwide and retail shops in Sun Prairie and Madison, and is the sole proprietor of small house cleaning business. She also has served on the Lowville Town Board and is a founding member of 1000 Friends of Wisconsin.

Yost will face fellow Democrat Dan Jardine of DeForest in the primary election. Jardine is currently a Commissioner on the DeForest Police Commission and private practice attorney.

Assembly District 49

Incumbent Gabe Loeffelholz (R- Platteville) was born in the Town of Paris, Grant County, on Nov. 11, 1940, and graduated from Platteville H.S. He is married and has two children and three grandchildren. Loefellholz is a farmer and veteran, having served in the U.S. Army and the Wisconsin National Guard from 1959-64. He was first elected to the Assembly in 2000.

Loeffelholz is being challenged by Platteville Democrat Phil Garthwaite – the Farm Director for radio station KDTH, in southwest Wisconsin.

Assembly District 51

Incumbent Stephen Freese (R-Dodgeville) was born in Dubuque, Iowa, March 16, 1960. He is married and has two children. He is a graduate of Southwestern Community H.S. (Hazel Green) and received his B.S. in political science from UW-Platteville in 1982. He is a farm manager. Freese was first elected to the Assembly in 1990 and has served as Speaker Pro Tempore 2003, 2001, 1999, 1997, 1995.

Freese is faces a challenge from Steve Hilgenberg, a Democrat from Dodgeville. Hilgenberg is the former owner of Inkwell Printers, where he currently still works part-time, and is a long-time member of the Dodgeville Board of Education.

Assembly District 67

Incumbent Jeffrey Wood (R-Chippewa Falls) was born in Juneau County on Sept. 12, 1969. He is married and has one child. Wood is a graduate of Chippewa Falls Senior H.S. (1987) and attended UW-Eau Claire. He is a former small business owner and local government reporter. He served in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Naval Reserve, 1986-94, and was first elected to the Assembly in 2002. Wood is vice chair of the Ways & Means Committee and a lead author of the Taxpayers Bill of Rights or TABOR.

Wood is being challenged by Democrat Roberta Rasmus of Chippewa Falls. Rasmus is the current Chippewa Falls Area Unified School District Board of Education President. She was also appointed by Governor Doyle to serve on the Teachers Retirement Board.

Assembly District 68

Incumbent Terry Moulton (R-Chippewa Falls) is just finishing his first term in the Wisconsin State Assembly. Moulton is a legislator and small business owner and serves on the Natural Resources (Vice Chair); Health; Insurance; and Tourism Committees.

Moulton faces Eau Claire Democrat Michael Turner in the general election. Turner is currently a custodian for the Eau Claire Area School District and president of the AFSCME Local 560.

Assembly District 80

Incumbent Brett Davis (R-Oregon) was elected to the State Assembly in November 2004. Rep. Davis is a former legislative aide and currently serves on the Energy & Utilities (Vice Chair); Education; Medicaid Reform; and, Transportation Committees. He was also recently elected to serve on the Oregon Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Davis faces either Wally Fellows or Janis Ringhand in the general election. Fellows currently works at the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and resides in Oregon. Ringhand is a former Evansville Mayor and bookkeeper for a family business. Ringhand ran for this seat in 2004, however, was defeated in the primary.

Assembly District 87

Incumbent Mary Williams (R-Medford) was born in Phillips, July 8, 1949. She is married and has three children and two grandchildren. Williams is a graduate of Phillips H.S. (1967) and received her associate degree at Taylor County Teachers College in 1969 and B.S. in Elementary Ed at UW-Stevens Point in 1974. She is a restaurant owner and former elementary teacher for the Medford Area School District. She was first elected to the Assembly in 2002.

Williams will face either Dewey Floberg or Judy Reas in the general election. Floberg, a Ladysmith Democrat, is a bank officer at the Pioneer Bank in Ladysmith. Reas is currently a member of the Park Falls Planning Commission where she worked for more than 20 years at the local hospital.

Assembly District 88

Incumbent Judy Krawczyk (R- Green Bay) was born in Green Bay, Jan. 24, 1939. She is married and has three children and seven grandchildren. She is a graduate of St. Joseph's Academy H.S. (1957). She is a supper club owner and was first elected to the Assembly in 2000.

Krawczyk will face either Democrat Dan Aude of Green Bay, a current member of the United Auto Workers, or fellow Green Bay Democrat James Soletski, a retired electric power industry worker.

Assembly District 90

Incumbent Karl Van Roy (R-Green Bay) was born in Green Bay, Dec. 1, 1938. He is a graduate of Premontre H.S. (Green Bay, 1957) and received his B.A. in Economics at St. Norbert College (De Pere) in 1961. He is a former restaurateur. He served in the U.S. Army from 1962-64 and was first elected to the Assembly in 2002.

Van Roy will face either Carol Arnoldi or Gary Froseth, both Green Bay Democrats, in the general election. Arnoldi was a union electrician for 35 years and elected to the Green Bay City Council. Froseth is pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church in Green Bay.

Assembly District 96

Incumbent Lee Nerison (R-Prairie du Chien) was elected to the State Assembly in November 2004. Rep. Nerison is also a dairy farmer and currently serves on the Agriculture, Energy & Utilities (Vice Chair); Rural Affairs and Renewable Energy; and, Tourism Committees.

Nerison faces Democrat challenger Gail Frie of Viroqua. Frie, a small business owner, unsuccessfully ran against Nerison in 2004.

Safe Republican

Assembly District 1

Incumbent Gary Bies (R- Sister Bay) was born in Manitowoc on Oct. 26, 1946. He is married and has four children. He received an Associate Degree from Northeastern Technical College in 1982. He is a former chief deputy sheriff and a deputy sheriff in Door County for 30 years. Bies was elected to the Assembly in 2000 and currently chairs the Assembly Corrections and Courts Committee and serves as Vice Chair of the Highway Safety Committee.

Bies is opposed by Sturgeon Bay Democrat Ame Grail. Grail is a former restaurant owner and currently sells real estate in the Door County Area.

Assembly District 2

Incumbent Frank Lasee (R-Green Bay) is unopposed. Lasee was born in Oceanside, California on Dec. 11, 1961. He has two children. He received his B.A. from the UW-Green Bay in 1986. He was elected to the Assembly in 1994. Rep. Lasee currently chairs the Committee on Government Operations and Spending Limitations and is a lead author of the Taxpayers Bill of Rights or TABOR. He also serves on the Criminal Justice and Homeland Security Committee.

Assembly District 3

Incumbent Al Ott (R- Forest Junction) was born in Green Bay, June 19, 1949. He is married and has four children. He is a graduate of Brillion H.S and the UW-Madison Farm and Industry Short Course, 1968. Rep. Ott is a former agri-business salesman, owner/operator of independent agri-business, tenant dairy farmer, and cash crop farmer. Ott was elected to the Assembly in 1986. Rep. Ott currently serves as chair of the Committee on Agriculture and serves on the Natural Resources; Rural Development and Transportation Committees.

Ott is opposed by Democrat Ron Gruett of Chilton. Gruett has been a teacher for 33 years and also works part-time for the Fox Valley Technical College.

Assembly District 4

Incumbent Phil Montgomery (R-Green Bay) was born in Hammond, Indiana on July 7, 1957. He is married and has two children. He is a graduate of T.F. North H.S. and earned a B.S. in Business and Commerce from the U. of Houston-Downtown, Houston, Texas in 1988. Montgomery is a former systems engineer. He was elected to the Assembly in 1998 and currently serves as chair of the Energy & Utilities Committee.

Montgomery is opposed by Democrat Rich Langan of Green Bay. Langan is a retired police officer, paramedic and firefighter – serving Ashewaubenon for twenty years.

Assembly District 6

This open seated was vacated by the retirement of John Ainsworth. Four Republicans are seeking the post including: J.P. Drengler, a Shawano resort owner and insurance agent; Scott McMahon, a business analyst for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and former personal banker from Gillett; Gary Tauchen a Shawano dairy farmer and bank Director; and, Dale Vannes, a Shawano Insurance and Financial Advisor for 36 years.

The Democratic challenger is Richard Lieffring of Cecil.

Assembly District 14

Incumbent Leah Vukmir (R- Wauwatosa) was born in Milwaukee on April 26, 1958. She is married and has two children. Vukmir is a graduate of Brookfield East H.S., 1976, received a B.S. in nursing from Marquette in 1980 and a M.S. in nursing from UW-Madison 1983. She is a registered nurse at St. Mary's Medical Center in Milwaukee and a nationally certified pediatric nurse practitioner. Vukmir was first elected to the Assembly in 2002.

Vukmir faces Milwaukee Democrat Dave Hucke in the general election.

Assembly District 21

Incumbent Mark Honadel (R-South Milwaukee) is unopposed. He was born in Milwaukee on March 29, 1956. He is married and has three children. Honadel is a graduate of Oak Creek H.S. and attended Milwaukee Area Technical College and Marquette University. He is the owner of a lawn and garden center and a former professional metal fabricator, welding instructor, and industrial manager. Honadel was first elected to Assembly in a July 2003 special election. He currently serves as Chair of the Southeast Wisconsin Freeways Committee.

Assembly District 23

Two Republicans are seeking the nomination to this seat: Jim Ott of Mequon, is a lecturer at UW-Parkside and most recently was a meteorologist on TMJ-4 and and WTMJ Radio in Milwaukee.

John Wirth of Brown Deer is an attorney and partner at Mallery & Zimmerman, S.C.

Three Democrats are also vying for this open seat: Bill Elliot of Shorewood is a self-employed consultant; Stanley Teplin is a dentist in Mequon; and Toni Ihler of Thiensville. 

Assembly District 24

Incumbent Sue Jeskewitz (R-Menomonee Falls) faces a primary only. She was born in Galesville on Feb. 21, 1942. She is married and has two children and two grandchildren. She is a graduate of Gale-Ettrick H.S. (Galesville) and received her B.A. from UW-La Crosse in 1964. She is a former bank public relations representative, teacher, YMCA director, associate director of Menomonee Falls Chamber of Commerce and real estate broker. She was first elected to the Assembly in 1996 and is the current chair of the Audit Committee.

Assembly District 27

Incumbent Steve Kestell (R-Elkhart Lake) was born in the Town of Lyndon on June 15, 1955. He is married and has three children. He is a graduate of Plymouth H.S. Kestell is a former hardware store manager and regional sales manager. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1998. He is unopposed this election cycle.

Assembly District 30

Incumbent Kitty Rhoades (R-Hudson) was born in St. Paul, Minn., on April 7, 1951. She is married and has three children. Rhoades is a graduate of Hudson H.S. and received a B.S. degree from UW-River Falls in 1973 and a M.A. degree from Illinois State U. in 1978. She is a consultant and former educator, small business owner, and Hudson Chamber of Commerce president. She was first elected to the Assembly in 1998 and serves on the Joint Committee on Finance.

Rhoades is being challenged by Democrat Dan Gorman of River Falls.

Assembly District 31

Incumbent Steve Nass (R-Palmyra) was born in Whitewater on Oct. 7, 1952. He is single. Nass is a graduate of Whitewater H.S. and received a B.S. degree from UW-Whitewater in 1978 and a M.S. Ed. in school business management from UW-Whitewater in 1990. He is a former payroll benefits analyst and information analyst/negotiator. Nass is a member of Wis. Air National Guard, served in Middle East in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1990 and currently serves as chair of the Labor Committee and Vice Chair of Ways and Means; Education Reform; and Property Rights and Land Management Committees.

Nass is being challenged by Democrat Scott Woods of Elkhorn. Woods ran unsuccessfully for the 11th Senate District in 2002 and unsuccessfully against Nass in 2004.

Assembly District 32

Incumbent Thomas Lothian (R-Williams Bay) was born in Cleveland, Ohio, December 14, 1928. He is married and has two sons. Lothian is a graduate of Cleveland Heights H.S. (1947) and received a B.A. in education from Ohio State Univ. in 1953 and an M.A. in chemistry from the Illinois Institute of Technology. He is a former assistant professor and administrator, U. of Illinois-Chicago. He was first elected to the Assembly in 2002.

Democrat Ryan Schroeder of Delavan is seeking a rematch of the 2002 and 2004 election.

Assembly District 33

Incumbent  Scott Newcomer (R-Hartford) was elected to the State Assembly in the January 2006 special election. He is a home inspector and expert witness for the industry. Newcomer serves as Vice Chair of the Labor Committee and serves on the Medicaid Reform and State Affairs Committees.

Newcomer faces Mukwonago Democrat Thomas Redosevich in the general election.

Assembly District 34

Incumbent Dan Meyer (R-Eagle River) was born in Neenah, Jan. 1, 1949. He is married and has two children. Meyer is a graduate of Neenah H.S. and received his B.B.A. from UW-Oshkosh 1978. He is the former executive director of Eagle River Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center. A Vietnam Era veteran, he served in the U.S. Army. He was first elected to the Assembly in 2000. Meyer is currently a member of the Joint Committee on Finance.

Meyer is being challenged Democrat Paul Tubbs of Rhinelander.

Assembly District 35

Incumbent Don Friske (R- Merrill) is unopposed. Friske was born in Tomahawk on Nov. 9, 1961. He is married and has three children. Friske is a graduate of Tomahawk H.S. He is a former deputy sheriff and served in Army from 1979 to 1985. He was first elected to the Assembly in 2000 and currently serves as Chair of the Forestry Committee, Vice Chair of the Criminal Justice and Homeland Security Committee and serves on the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules and the Transportation Committee.

Assembly District 38

Incumbent Republican Joel Kleefisch of Oconomowoc was elected in the November 2004 election. Kleefisch worked as an award-winning investigative TV journalist and lives in Oconomowoc with his wife and child. Kleefisch graduated with a B.A. from Pepperdine University and worked in television news for nearly a decade. He currently serves as Vice Chair of the State Affairs Committee and serves on the Financial Institutions; Judiciary; and State-Federal Relations Committees.

Kleefisch faces Democrat Dwayne Block of Oconomowoc. Block has spent 33 years as a music teacher in Oconomowoc.

Assembly District 39

Incumbent Jeff Fitzgerald (R- Horicon) is unopposed. He was born in Chicago on Oct. 12, 1966 and is married with two children. Fitzgerald is a graduate of Hustisford H.S. and received a B.S. degree from UW-Oshkosh. He is a former small business owner and member of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. He was first elected to the Assembly in 2000 and currently serves as Assistant Majority Leader and Chair of the State Affairs Committee. 

Assembly District 40

This open seat was created by Rep. Jean Hundertmark (R-Clintonville) who is running for Lt. Governor. Two Republicans are vying for this seat including Hyde Murray, an attorney from Waupaca; and, Kevin Peterson an electronics repair business owner also from Waupaca.

Democrat Dan Naylor is the owner of White Pine Consulting in Waupaca.

Assembly District 41

Incumbent Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan) is co-owner/manager of Ballweg Implement Co and served as mayor of Markesan from 1991 to 1997. She was born in Milwaukee, March 16, 1952. She is a graduate of Nathan Hale High School, West Allis and UW-Stevens Point, Elementary Education. She is married and has three children. She was elected to the Assembly in 2004 and currently serves as Vice Chair of the Colleges & Universities Committee and Chairs the Special Legislative Committee on Disaster Preparedness Planning.

Ballweg faces Democrat Maura Robinson of Coloma in the general election.

Assembly District 50

Incumbent Sheryl Albers (R-Reedsburg) was born in Baraboo, Sept. 9, 1954. She is married and has one son. She is a graduate of Baraboo Senior H.S. and attended Carroll College 1972-74. She received her B.A. from Ripon College, and her J.D. from UW-Madison in 2004. She is a part-time associate for Hazelbaker & Associates. First elected to the Assembly in a December 1991 special election, Albers currently serves as chair of the Property Rights and Land Management Committee and serves on the Rural Affairs and Renewable Energy Committee.

Albers’ Democratic opponent is Will Buros of Cazenovia.

Assembly District 52

Incumbent John Townsend (R- Fond du Lac) is unopposed. He was born in St. Louis, Missouri on May 23, 1938. He is married and has two children. He is a graduate of Madison H.S. (Madison Heights, Mich.) and received his B.S. from Wayne State U. in 1960, and M.B.A. Wayne State U. in 1967. He is a former partner in a small business and a corporate executive. A Vietnam veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy, U.S. Naval Reserves, and is a retired Captain, U.S. Naval Reserves. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1998 and Chairs the Aging & Long Term Care Committee and serves as Vice Chair of the Housing Committee.

Assembly District 53

Incumbent Carol Owens (R-Oshkosh) was born in Wabeno on Aug. 8, 1931. She is married and has four children. Owens is a graduate of Wabeno H.S. and attended Fox Valley and Moraine Park Technical Colleges. She is a former dairy farmer. She was first elected to the Assembly in 1992.

Rep. Owens faces a primary challenge from Dick Spanbauer of Oshkosh.

Assembly District 55

Incumbent Dean Kaufert (R-Neenah) was born in Outagamie County, May 23, 1957. He is married and has two children. Kaufert is a graduate of Neenah H.S. and is the owner of a trophy and awards store. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1990. Rep. Kaufert currently serves as co-chair of the Joint Committee on Finance.

Kaufert faces Democrat Mark Westphal of Neenah. Westphal has been President of the Fox Valley Labor Council for the last 10 years.

Assembly District 56

This open seat has two Republicans squaring off in the primary. They are: Appleton’s Roger Roth, of Roth & Sons Construction and Roth Development Corporation and Bob Wallis of Greenville and owner of R&R Construction.

Susan Garcia Franz is a Democrat from the Town of Menasha. 

Assembly District 57

Incumbent Steve Wieckert (R- Appleton) was born in Appleton on Oct. 26, 1954. He is married. Wieckert is a graduate of Appleton West H.S. and attended Philips Exeter Academy. He received his B.A. in political science and M.A. in public administration from American University, Washington, D.C. 1978, 1981. He is the CEO of Wieckert Real Estate. He is a former legislative assistant for Congressman Tom Petri. Wieckert was first elected to the Assembly in 1996 and currently serves as chair of the Housing Committee and co-chair of the Joint Legislative Council and Vice Chair of the Insurance Committee.

Wieckert faces Appleton Democrat Penny Bernard Schaber, a past chair of the John Muir Chapter of the Sierra Club. 

Assembly District 58

Incumbent Rep. Patricia Strachota (R-West Bend) is unopposed. She was elected in November 2004 and is a former personnel/safety analyst for the Washington County Human Resources Department. She is married with four children and currently serves as Vice Chair of the Medicaid Reform Committee.

Assembly District 59

Incumbent Dan LeMahieu (R-Oostburg) is unopposed. He was born in Sheboygan on Nov. 5, 1946. He is married and has three children. LeMahieu is a graduate of Oostburg H.S. and attended UW-Sheboygan and UW-Milwaukee. He is a former publisher of Lakeshore Weekly and a Vietnam Era veteran having served in the Army from 1969-71. He was first elected to the Assembly in 2002 and currently chairs the Urban and Local Affairs Committee and co-chairs the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules.

Assembly District 60

Incumbent Mark Gottlieb (R-Port Washington) is unopposed. He was born in Milwaukee, Dec. 11, 1956 and is married and has four children. He is a graduate of James Madison H.S. (Milwaukee) and received his B.S. from UW-Milwaukee in 1981 and in Engineering from UW-Milwaukee in 1984. He is a civil engineer and Vietnam Era veteran, having served in the Navy from 1974-78. He was first elected to the Assembly in 2002 and currently chairs the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules and co-chairs the Joint Legislative Committee on Road to the Future.

Assembly District 63

Incumbent Robin Vos (R-Racine) was elected in November 2004. He is a small business owner and former congressional aide. He currently serves as Vice Chair of the Children and Families Committee and serves on the Financial Institutions and Medicaid Reform Committees.

Assembly District 66

Incumbent Samantha Kerkman (R-Burlington) is unopposed. She was born in Burlington on March 6, 1974. She is married and has one child. Kerkman is a graduate of Wilmot H.S. and received her B.A. from UW-Whitewater in 1996. A former legislative aide, she was first elected to the Assembly in 2000 and chairs the Budget Review Committee and serves on the Joint Committee on Audit, Southeast Wisconsin Freeways and Ways & Means Committee.

Assembly District 69

Incumbent Scott Suder (R- Abbotsford) was born in Medford on September 28, 1968. He is a graduate of Abbotsford H.S. and received his B.A. from UW-Eau Claire 1991. He is a small businessman and former legislative aide. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1998 and currently serves as chair of the Criminal Justice and Homeland Security Committee and Vice Chair of the Rural Development Committee.

Suder faces Democrat Tim Swiggum in the general election. Swiggum is a restaurant owner and the current Mayor of the city of Owen in Clark County.

 Assembly District 82

Incumbent Jeff Stone (R- Greendale) is unopposed. Stone was born in Topeka, Kansas on Jan. 28, 1961 and is married. He is a graduate of West Muskingum H.S. (Zanesville, Ohio) and received his B.A. in political science and history from Washburn U. (Topeka) magna cum laude and Phi Kappa Phi 1983. He is a printing business owner. Stone was first elected to the Assembly in the April 1998 special election and is a member of the Joint Committee on Finance and the Joint Committee on the Road to the Future.

Assembly District 83

Incumbent Scott Gunderson (R-Waterford) was born in Burlington, on Oct. 24, 1956, is married and has three children. He is a graduate Waterford H.S. and is a sports store owner and farmer. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1994 and serves as chair of the Natural Resources Committee and serves on the State Fair Park Board.

Gunderson faces Democrat Don Herron of Mukownago in the general election.

Assembly District 84

Incumbent Mark Gundrum (R-New Berlin) was born in Milwaukee on March 20, 1970. He is married and has four children. He is a practicing attorney and United States Army Reserves (Judge Advocate). He was first elected to the Assembly 1998 and currently chairs the Judiciary Committee and is vice chair of the Campaigns and Elections Committee. He was also elected the Assembly Republican Caucus Chair.

Gundurm faces Democrat Adam Lang in the general election.

Assembly District 86

Jerry Petrowksi (R-Marathon) is unopposed. He was born in Wausau on June 16, 1950, is married and has four children. He is a graduate of Newman H.S. and attended UW-Marathon County and Northcentral Technical College. He is a ginseng, dairy, and beef farmer. He served in the Army Reserve from 1968-74. He was first elected to the Assembly 1998 and chairs the Highway Safety Committee and serves as vice chair of the Transportation Committee. He was also appointed to the Governor’s Council on Highway Safety.

Assembly District 89

This seat was vacated by Assembly Speaker John Gard, who is running for the 8th congressional district. Two Republicans are running in the primary including former State Senator Gary Drzewiecki of Pulaski. Drzewiecki served as State Senator from 1992 to 2000.

Republican John Nygren of Marinette is a small insurance and financial industry business owner and former restaurant owner.

Democrat Bruce Berman and Randy Koehn, both of Marinette, will face each other in the Democratic primary election.

Assembly District 92

Incumbent Terry Musser (R-Black River Falls) was born in Black River Falls on Nov. 15, 1947. He is married and has two children and three grandchildren. He is a graduate of Melrose H.S. and attended UW-La Crosse from 1973-76. He is a farmer and former driver license examiner. He is a Vietnam veteran, having served two tours as a paratrooper and Green Beret, 6th Special Forces, Fort Bragg, NC, 1965-68. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1984 and currently serves as chair of the Military Affairs Committee, vice chair of the Veterans Affairs Committee and vice chair of the Government Operations and Spending Limitations Committee.

Musser is being challenged by Democrat Curtis Miller of Sparta.

Assembly District 93

Incumbent Rob Kreibich (R-Eau Claire) was born in Wabasha, Minn., June 4, 1959. He has three children. He is a graduate of River Falls H.S. and received his B.A. in journalism from the Univ. of Minnesota 1982. He attended Brown Institute (MN) and is a former WEAU-TV anchorman. Kreibich was first elected to the Assembly in 1992 and now serves as chair of the Colleges & Universities Committee and Commissioner of the Midwest Higher Education Compact.

Kreibich is being challenged by Democrat Jeff Smith, Chair of the Town of Brunswick.

Assembly District 94

Incumbent Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem) was born in Milwaukee on July 19, 1964. He is married and has two sons. He is a graduate of Onalaska H.S., 1982, and Oral Roberts University, 1982-87. He is a former marketing director and legislative assistant. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1994 and is the current Assembly Majority Leader.

Huebsch is being challenged by James Kinsman of West Salem. Kinsman is employed with the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad.

Assembly District 97

This seat was vacated by Rep. Ann Nischke. Republicans Bill Kramer and Chris Lufter, both of Waukesha are vying for this seat. Kramer is a certified financial planner and Lufter is a part-time medical billing professional.

Democrat Steve Schmucki of Waukesha is also running for this seat.

Assembly District 98

This seat has been vacated by former Rep. Scott Jensen. Several candidates have filed including the following Republicans: Bob Collison of Brookfield; Frank Goodwin of Pewaukee; Mike Maxwell of Waukesha; Tom Schellinger of Brookfield; and, Rich Zipperer of Pewaukee.

Democrat Sterling Lynk of Waukesha has also announced as a candidate.

Assembly District 99

Incumbent Don Pridemore (R-Hartford) is unopposed. Pridemore was elected in November 2004. He is a full time legislator and former electronics research technician. He is a Vietnam Veteran and currently serves as vice chair of the Urban and Local Affairs Committee as well as serving on the Ways & Means Committee.

Democrat Protect

Assembly District 5

Incumbent Tom Nelson (D-Little Chute) was elected in November 2004. He currently serves on the Health; Insurance; Rural Development and Transportation Committees. He won this seat two years ago.

Nelson faces Republican Jim Reigel of Green Bay. Reigel is a small business owner, providing websites for restaurants. He is a former teacher and teaching assistant at UW-Madison.

Assembly District 13

Incumbent David Cullen (D- Milwaukee) was born in Milwaukee on Feb. 1, 1960. He is married and has two children. He is a graduate of John Marshall H.S. and received a B.S. in secondary education from UW-Madison in 1981 and his J.D. from Marquette in 1984. He was first elected to the Assembly in a May 1990 special election. He serves on the Audit; Family Law; Insurance; and, Southeast Wisconsin Freeways Committees.

Cullen will face Milwaukee Republican Rick Baas in the general election. Baas is a licensed real estate broker.

Assembly District 25

Incumbent Bob Ziegelbauer (D- Manitowoc) was born in Manitowoc on Aug. 26, 1951. He is single. He is a graduate of Manitowoc Roncalli H.S. and received a B.B.A. from the Univ. of Notre Dame and a M.B.A. from Univ. of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Business. Ziegelbauer is also the Manitowoc County Executive. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1992 and currently serves in the Agriculture; Education; Tourism and Ways & Means Committees.

Ziegelbauer faces Republican Paul Tittl also of Manitowoc. Tittl is a small business owner.

Assembly District 62

This open seat was vacated by Rep. John Lehman who is running for the open 21st Senate District.

Democrat Corey Mason of Racine is a former legislative aide and employee of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT-Wisconsin). 

Republican Van Wanggaard of Racine is a Financial Service Representative and retired Racine police officer.

Assembly District 85

Incumbent Donna Seidel (D-Wausau) was elected in November 2004. Prior to serving in the State Legislature, she was the Marathon County Clerk of Circuit Courts. She currently serves on the Tourism, Corrections, and Workforce Development Committees.

Seidel faces Republican Bryan Rasmussen of Schofield.

Safe Democrat

Assembly District 7

Incumbent Peggy Krusick (D- Milwaukee) is unopposed. She was born in Milwaukee, Oct. 26, 1956 and is married and has two children. Krusick is a graduate of Milwaukee Hamilton H.S., 1974, and earned a B.A. in political science with honors, and a certificate in law studies from UW-Milwaukee 1978. She was first elected to the Assembly in a June 1983 special election. She currently serves on the Aging & Long-Term Care and Criminal Justice & Homeland Security Committees.

Assembly District 8

Incumbent Pedro Colon (D-Milwaukee) is unopposed. He was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico on April 7, 1968 and is married and has two daughters. He is a graduate of Thomas More H.S. (Milwaukee) and earned a B.A. from Marquette in 1991 and J.D. from UW-Madison in 1994. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1998 and currently serves on the Joint Committee on Finance.

Assembly District 9

Incumbent Josh Zepnick (D-Milwaukee) is unopposed. He was born in Milwaukee on March 21, 1968 and is married. He is a graduate of Rufus King H.S. (Milwaukee) and earned a  B.A. from UW-Madison in 1990 and a M.A. from the University of Minnesota in 1998. He is a former project consultant, Milwaukee Jobs Initiative, Milwaukee Community Service Corps, and Urban Economic Development Association of Wisconsin; research associate, Center for Democracy and Citizenship; and aide to State Senator Bob Jauch and Congressman David R. Obey. He was first elected to the Assembly in 2002 and currently serves on the Energy & Utilities; Financial Institutions and Joint Legislative Road to the Future Committees.

Assembly District 10

Incumbent Annette Polly Williams (D- Milwaukee) was born in Belzoni, Missouri on Jan. 10, 1937. She has four children. She is a graduate of Milwaukee North Division H.S., attended Milwaukee Area Tech. College, 1971-73, and received a B.S. from UW-Milwaukee in 1975. Williams is a former mental health assistant, counselor, cashier/clerk, keypunch operator, typist. She was first elected to the Assembly in 1980.

Assembly District 11

Incumbent Jason Fields (D-Milwaukee) is unopposed. Fields was elected to the Assembly in November 2004. Fields is a former stockbroker, financial advisor and banker. He currently serves on the following committees: Economic Development; Financial Institutions; Small Business; Urban & Local Affairs; and, Ways & Means.

Assembly District 12

Incumbent Fred Kessler (D-Milwaukee) is unopposed. Kessler is a former Assembly member, labor arbitrator and reserve judge before returning to the State Assembly in November 2004. Kessler currently serves on the Criminal Justice & Homeland Security and Judiciary Committees.

Assembly District 15

Incumbent Tony Staskunas (D-West Allis) is unopposed. He was born in West Allis on Jan. 3, 1961. He is married and has three children. He is a graduate of West Allis Nathan Hale H.S. and received a B.A. cum laude from UW-Milwaukee (Phi Beta Kappa) in 1983 and a J.D. from UW-Madison 1986. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1996 and currently serves on the Judiciary; Energy & Utilities; Insurance and Property Rights & Land Management Committees.

Assembly District 16

Incumbent Leon Young (D-Milwaukee) is unopposed. Young has served in the State Assembly since 1992 and currently serves on the Highway Safety; State Affairs; Tourism and Ways & Means Committees.

Assembly District 17

Incumbent Barbara Toles (D-Milwaukee) is unopposed. Toles was first elected to the State Assembly in a January 2004 special election. She currently serves on the Economic Development; State Affairs; Ways & Means and Workforce Development Committees.

Assembly District 18

Incumbent Tamara Grigsby (D-Milwaukee) is unopposed. Rep. Grigsby was elected in November 2004. Prior to her election, she worked as a social worker, child advocate and family counselor. Grigsby currently serves on the Public Health, and Children & Families Committees.

Assembly District 19

Incumbent Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee) is unopposed. He was born in Waukesha on Sept. 5, 1963. He is single. Richards is a graduate of Waukesha North H.S. and received a B.A. from Lawrence Univ. in 1986 and a J.D. from UW-Madison in 1994. He also attended Keio University (Tokyo). He is an attorney and former English teacher in Japan and former volunteer with Mother Teresa, Calcutta, India. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1998 and serves as assistant Minority Leader.

Assembly District 20

Incumbent Christine Sinicki (D-Milwaukee) was born in Milwaukee, March 28, 1960. She is married and has two children. She is a graduate of Bay View H.S. Sinicki is a former small business manager. She was first elected to the Assembly in 1998 and currently serves on the Children & Families and Labor Committees.

Assembly District 22

Incumbent Sheldon Wasserman (D-Milwaukee) is unopposed. He was born in Milwaukee, August 5, 1961.He is married and has three children. Wasserman is a graduate of Milwaukee John Marshall H.S. 1979 and received s B.S. Phi Beta Kappa, UW-Milwaukee, 1983; M.D. Medical College of Wisconsin 1987; Bethesda Hospital OB/GYN Residency 1987-91. He is a practicing OB/GYN physician. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1994 and currently serves on the Health; Public Health; and Medicare Reform Committees.

Assembly District 26

Incumbent Terry Van Akkeren (D- Sheboygan) was born in Sheboygan on March 10, 1954. He is married and has four children. He is a graduate of Sheboygan North H.S., 1972 and Lakeshore Tech. College 1982. He is an engineering technician and former tool and die maker. He was first elected to the Assembly in 2002 and serves on the Education; Labor; Tourism and Natural Resources Committees.

Van Akkeren faces Republican Job Hou-Seye of Sheboygan. Hou-Seye is a financial protection advisor.

Assembly District 44
Incumbent Mike Sheridan (D-Janesville) is unopposed. Sheridan currently serves as President of the United Auto Workers Local 95. He was elected in November 2004 and serves in the Insurance; Small Business; Workforce Development and Joint Legislative Road to the Future Committees.

Assembly District 45

Incumbent Chuck Benedict (D-Beloit) is unopposed. Benedict, a retired neurologist, was elected in 2004. He currently serves on the Health; Public Health; Medicare Reform and State Affairs Committees.

Assembly District 46

Incumbent Gary Hebl (D-Sun Prairie) is unopposed. Hebl was first elected in 2004 and is a partner at Hebl, Hebl & Ripp law firm. Hebl serves on the Natural Resources; Small Business and Ways & Means Committees.

Assembly District 61

Incumbent Robert Turner (D- Racine) is unopposed. He was born in Columbus, Missouri on Sept. 14, 1947. He is married and has three children. He is a graduate of R.E. Hunt H.S., Columbus, MS. He attended Dominican College in 1972 and received a B.S. in business administration from UW-Parkside in 1976. He is a Vietnam veteran, serving in the Air Force from 1967-70. Turner was elected to the Assembly in 1990.

Assembly District 64

Incumbent Minority Leader Jim Kreuser (D- Kenosha) is unopposed. He was born in Kenosha on May 20, 1961. He is married and has two sons. He is a graduate of Tremper H.S. 1979 and received a B.A. in political science from UW-Parkside in 1983 and a M.P.A. from UW-Parkside in 1986. Kreuser is a former administrative assistant to the Kenosha County Executive. He was first elected to the Assembly in an August 1993 special election. He has served as Minority Leader since 2003.

Assembly District 65

Incumbent John Steinbrink (D-Pleasant Prairie) is unopposed. He was born in Kenosha on April 17, 1949. He is married and has three children. He is a graduate of George Tremper H.S. and attended Carthage College and UW-Madison Farm and Industry Short Course. Steinbrink is a grain farmer and former dairy farmer. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1996 and reelected since. He currently serves on the Economic Development; Energy & Utilities; Natural Resources and Transportation Committees.

Assembly District 70

Incumbent Amy Sue Vruwink (D-Blenker) is a former legislative aide and Farm Bureau Federation employee. Vruwink was elected 2002 and currently serves as the Minority Caucus Secretary as well as serving on the Agriculture; Health; Rural Affairs & Renewable Energy; and Transportation Committees.

Vruwink faces Republican Dennis Juncer of Marshfield. Juncer is partner at Stauber, Juncer & Wolfgram, S.C. law firm.

Assembly District 71

Incumbent Louis Molepske, Jr. (D-Stevens Point) is unopposed. Molepske was elected to the Assembly in a July 2003 special election. He is an attorney and former local government ambassador to Santo Tomas, Nicaragua. He was also special prosecutor in the Portage County D.A. office. Rep. Molepske currently serves on the Agriculture; Colleges & Universities; Financial Institutions; Natural Resources and Transportation Committees.

Assembly District 72

Incumbent Marlin Schneider (D-Wisconsin Rapids) has served in the State Assembly since 1970. He currently serves on the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules; Committee on Highway Safety; Committee on Rural Affairs & Renewable Energy and the Committee on Military Affairs. He is also a former Assembly Majority Leader.

Schneider faces Republican Les Stewart, a Nekoosa small business owner.

Assembly District 73

Incumbent Frank Boyle (D-Superior) is unopposed. Rep. Boyle has served in the State Assembly since 1986 and currently serves on the Colleges & Universities; Forestry; and Military Affairs Committees.

Assembly District 74

Incumbent Gary Sherman (D- Port Wing) was born in Chicago, May 5, 1949. He has two children. Sherman is a graduate of A.G. Lane Technical H.S. (Chicago). He received a B.A. in History and American Institutions from UW-Madison, 1970, and J.D. cum laude UW-Madison, 1973. Sherman is an attorney. He served in the Air Force in 1973. Sherman was first elected to the Assembly in 1998. He also served as president of the State Bar of Wisconsin.

Republican Shirl LaBarre of Hayward and Republican Dave Suminski of Ashland are looking to challenge Sherman in the general election.

Assembly District 75

Incumbent Mary Hubler (D- Rice Lake) was born July 31, 1952. She is a graduate of Rice Lake H.S. and received her B.S. from UW-Superior in 1973 and J.D. from UW-Madison in 1980. She is an attorney and former teacher.  She was first elected to the Assembly in 1984.

Hubler faces Republican Dari McDonald a Birchwood small business owner in the general election.

Assembly District 76

Incumbent Terese Berceau (D- Madison) is unopposed. She was born in Green Bay on Aug. 23, 1950. She is married. Berceau graduated from Green Bay East H.S., received her B.S. from UW-Madison in 1973, and went on to graduate studies in Urban and Regional Planning, UW-Madison. She is a former career services coordinator, UW-Madison Robert M. La Follette School of Public Affairs; staff, Wis. Counties Assn.; real estate salesperson; and, substitute teacher. She was first elected to the Assembly in1998.

Assembly District 77

Incumbent Spencer Black (D-Madison) is unopposed. He was born on May 25, 1950. He is married and has one son. He received his B.A. in economics and history, SUNY-Stony Brook 1972 and M.S. in urban and regional planning from UW-Madison, 1980, and M.A. in public policy and administration, UW-Madison 1981. He is a former conservation representative, Sierra Club; curator of education, State Historical Society of Wisconsin; and high school teacher. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1984.

Assembly District 78

Incumbent Mark Pocan (D-Madison) is unopposed.  He was born in Kenosha on Aug. 14, 1964. He is single. Pocan is a graduate of Mary D. Bradford H.S. (Kenosha) and received his B.A. from UW-Madison in 1986. He is a small businessperson. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1998.

Assembly District 79

Incumbent Sondy Pope-Roberts (D-Verona) is unopposed. She was born in Madison, April 27, 1950. She is widowed and has one child. She is a graduate of River Valley H.S. 1968 and also attended Madison Area Technical College and Edgewood College. She is a former associate director of the Foundation for Madison's Public Schools. Pope-Roberts was first elected to the Assembly in 2002.

Assembly District 95

Incumbent Jennifer Shilling (D- La Crosse) is unopposed. She was born in Oshkosh on July 4, 1969. She is married. Shilling graduated from Buffalo Grove H.S., Illinois, and received her B.A. in political science and public administration from UW-La Crosse, 1992. She is a former congressional aide to U.S. Rep. Ron Kind and legislative aide to Assembly Rep, Mark Meyer. She was first elected to the Assembly in 2000.