UW-Madison Professor of Political Science Charles Franklin broke down the November 2008 election results in an interview with WisconsinEye Public Policy Producer Craig Sauer on November 7, 2008. Franklin was interviewed in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio.

Editor of WisPolitics.com, JR Ross, broke down the 2008 November election results in an interview on November 6, 2008. Ross was interviewed by WisconsinEye Public Policy Producer Craig Sauer in the station’s Madison studio.

On November 5, 2008, Governor Doyle spoke with John Powell about his reaction to the election.

WisconsinEye spent a portion of election day out at the polls in Dane and Green County speaking to poll workers and election observers.

The Republican Party of Wisconsin held an election night party on November 4, 2008, in Pewaukee.

The Democratic Party of Wisconsin held an election night party on November 4, 2008, in Madison.

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Candidates in the 57th Assembly District met for a forum at the Appleton Public Library in Appleton on October 31, 2008. Republican Jo Egelhoff faced off with democrat Penny Bernard Schaber.

Sen. Alberta Darling, R-River Hills, squared off with Rep. Sheldon Wasserman, D-Milwaukee in the final debate in the 8th Senate District on October 29, 2008. Hosted by Concordia University in Mequon, the debate was moderated by Kent Wainscott, investigative reporter from WISN-TV.

U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin, D-Middleton, joined Rep. Kim Hixson, D-Whitewater, for a “Vote Down the Ballot” rally at Cravath Lake Park in Whitewater on October 28, 2008.

U.S. Rep. Ron Kind, D-La Crosse, met republican Paul Stark and libertarian Kevin Barrett on the UW-La Crosse campus for candidate forum for Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District. The forum was moderated by UW-La Crosse Political Science Professor Joe Heim. The forum was held on October 28, 2008.

U.S. Rep. Dave Obey, D-Wausau, participated in a debate with republican opponent Dan Mielke in Wausau on October 28, 2008. The debate was sponsored by Wisconsin Public Radio and the Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy and Service. Glen Moberg of Wisconsin Public Radio moderated the event with panelists Mark Baldwin, the executive editor of the Wausau Daily Herald, Erik Mrotek of WAOW-TV Channel 9 and Jeff Thelen of WSAW-TV Channel 7.

Republican challenger Debi Towns faced off with Rep. Kim Hixson, D-Whitewater, at a candidate forum in Whitewater on October 28, 2008. The debate was held at the University Center on the UW-Whitewater campus.

In their final candidate forum before the November elections, republican challenger John Gard squared off with U.S. Rep. Steve Kagen, D-Appleton, in Appleton on October 23, 2008. The two are seeking to represent Wisconsin’s 8th Congressional District. The forum, was hosted by AARP and Lawrence University. It was held in the Lawrence University Stansbury Theater in Appleton.

Former Massachusetts Governor and former republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney stumped for John Gard, the republican candidate in the 8th Congressional District, at a breakfast rally in Green Bay on October 22. The event was held at Brett Favre’s Steakhouse. Gard is seeking to unseat incumbent U.S. Rep. Steve Kagen, D-Appleton.

Rep. Steve Hilgenberg, D-Dodgeville, participated in a candidate forum with republican challenger Nathan Russell October 22, 2008. The event, hosted by the Sauk Prairie Optimist Club, was held at the River Arts Center in Prairie du Sac.

Candidates in the 32nd Senate District met for a debate at the UW-La Crosse Cartwright Center in La Crosse on October 21, 2008. Democratic Tara Johnson and incumbent Sen. Dan Kapanke, R-La Crosse, faced off in the debate moderated by UW-La Crosse Professor of Political Science Joe Heim.

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The republican and democratic candidates for the 8th Congressional District seat responded to questions from a panel of state and campus journalists in a debate October 21, 2008 at the UW-Green Bay in Green Bay. Republican challenger John Gard faced off with U.S. Rep. Steve Kagen, D-Appleton.

The local League of Women Voters hosted a forum for candidates in the 53rd Assembly District at the Oshkosh City Hall on October 20, 2008.

The local League of Women Voters hosted a forum for candidates in the 18th Senate District at the Oshkosh City Hall on October 20, 2008.

The local League of Women Voters hosted a forum for candidates in the 54th Assembly District at the Oshkosh City Hall on October 20, 2008.

Candidates in the 88th Assembly District met for a candidate forum on the UW-Green Bay campus in Green Bay on October 17, 2008. Incumbent Rep. Jim Soletski, D-Green Bay, faced off with republican challenger Tony Theisen.

Assistant Professor Wendy Scattergood and Professor David Wegge, both professors of political science at St. Norbert College in De Pere, discussed Northeast Wisconsin politics and the current local and national campaigns in an interview with WisconsinEye on October 17, 2008. The professors were interviewed on the St. Norbert College campus.

UW-Platteville Political Science Professor John Rink discussed Southwest Wisconsin Politics with WisconsinEye Public Policy Producer Craig Sauer on October 17, 2008. Rink was interviewed in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio.

A group of northern Wisconsin media hosted a candidate forum in the 12th Senate District and 34th Assembly District races at Nicolet Area Technical College on October 16, 2008. In the 12th Senate District democrat Jim Holperin faces republican Tom Tiffany and in the 34th Assembly District democrat Paul Tubbs challenges incumbent Rep. Dan Meyer, R-Eagle River.

The Milwaukee Jewish Council for Community Relations hosted a forum for candidates in the 8th Senate District and 22nd Assembly District races on October 16, 2008 at the Jewish Community Center in Milwaukee. In the 8th Senate District Rep. Sheldon Wasserman, D-Milwaukee, faces incumbent Sen. Alberta Darling, R-River Hills and in the 22nd Assembly District republican Yash Wadhwa faces democrat Sandy Pasch.

On Thursday October 16, Sol Grosskopf, Chairman of the Wisconsin Federation of College Republicans, stopped by the Wisconsin Eye Studios and spoke to Denise Rocha about College Republicans, their platform, and the direction of the party.

The candidates running for the 47th Assembly District met at a forum at the Lodi High School in Lodi on October 15, 2008. The forum was hosted by the Lodi Optimists Club and included republican Keith Ripp, democrat Trish O’Neil and independent Dennis Hruby.

The River Town News Group hosted a forum for candidates in the 10th Senate District and the 29th and 30th Assembly Districts in western Wisconsin.  The forum was held at the River Falls Public Library on October 14, 2008. Democrat Alison Page is challenging incumbent Sen. Sheila Harsdorf, R-River Falls, in the 10th Senate District; democrat Chris Buckel is challenging incumbent Rep. John Murtha, R-Baldwin; and democrat Sarah Bruch is challenging incumbent Rep. Kitty Rhoades, R-Hudson.

The DeForsest Area Public Library was the setting for a candidate forum in the 47th Assembly District on October 14, 2008. The forum included republican Keith Ripp, democrat Trish O’Neil and independent Dennis Hruby.

The Milwaukee Rotary Club hosted a candidate forum in the 8th Senate District on October 14, 2008. Incumbent Sen. Alberta Darling, R-River Hills, is being challenged by Rep. Sheldon Wasserman, D-Milwaukee.

UW-La Crosse Professor of Political Science Joe Heim discussed Western Wisconsin politics and the current local and national campaigns in an interview with WisconsinEye on October 13, 2008. Heim was interviewed on the UW-La Crosse campus.

Candidates in the 32nd Senate District, 91st and 96th Assembly Districts and 3rd Congressional District participated in a forum on long term care at the City Brewery in La Crosse on October 13, 2008. The event was sponsored by a group of area health care organizations.

The Altoona Star hosted a town hall forum for candidates in the 68th Assembly District on October 13, 2008 in Altoona High School Auditorium.  Incumbent Rep. Terry Moulton, R-Chippewa Falls, is being challenged by Kristen Dexter a democrat from Eau Claire.

The Altoona Star hosted a town hall forum for candidates in the 93rd Assembly District on October 13, 2008 in Altoona High School Auditorium. Incumbent Rep. Jeff Smith, D-Eau Claire, is being challenged by Darcy Fields.

The Lafayette County Republican Party held a campaign rally at the Darlington Super 8 Motel in Darlington on October 11, 2008. The featured speaker was Sen. Dale Shultz, R-Richland Center.

Rep. Phil Garthwaite, D-Dickeyville, and republican assembly candidate Travis Tranel met in Lancaster for a 49th Assembly District candidate forum. The forum was held in the Grant County Board Room in the Administration Building.

The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh hosted an 18th Senate District Debate between republican candidate Randy Hopper and democratic candidate Jessica King on October 7, 2008 at the Reeve Memorial Union in Oshkosh. The seat is open because of the retirement of incumbent Sen. Carol Roessler.

U.S. Rep. Steve Kagen, D-Appleton, met with his republican opponent in the 8th Congressional District race, John Gard at a candidate forum hosted by the Wisconsin Alliance for Retired Americans at the Thompson Community Center in Appleton on October 6, 2008. The 8th Congressional District is one of the most watched congressional races in the nation in 2008.

Assembly candidates in the 49th, 50th and 51st Districts as well as candidates in the 3rd Congressional District participated in a forum that focused on Aging and Disability Issues. U.S. Rep Ron Kind, the democratic incumbent in the 3rd Congressional District was unable to attend. Republican candidate in the 49th Assembly district also could not attend. The event was held at the Richland Community Center in Richland Center on October 6, 2008.

Candidates in the 47th Assembly District met for a forum in Columbus on October 2, 2008. Held at the Columbus Senior Center, democratic candidate Trish O’Neil faced off with independent candidate Dennis Hruby in the event. Republican candidate Keith Ripp did not attend.

State Democrats presented a plan for economic change on September 29, 2008 at Vulcan Heritage Park in Appleton. Democratic candidate in the 57th Assembly District Penny Bernard Schaber and Rep. Spencer Black, D-Madison held the news conference.

Candidates in the 30th Senate District, Sen. Dave Hansen, D-Green Bay, and republican candidate Chad Fradette met for a candidate forum sponsored by the Wisconsin Alliance for Retired Americans at the Brown County Library in Green Bay on September 29. The 30th Senate District is considered to be one of the most important state legislative races in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the state Senate.

Lou Ann Weix, Democratic candidate for the 90th Assembly District, answered questions from an audience September 29, 2008, at
a candidate forum at the Brown County Central Library in Green Bay. The incumbent Rep. Karl Van Roy, R-Howard, declined to attend the event which was sponsored by the Wisconsin Alliance for Retired Americans, which along side the Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups, hosted the forum.

Eau Claire County Republicans held their annual chicken barbecue at the Lake Altoona Clubhouse in Altoona on September 27, 2008. The event was the party’s official public kickoff of its efforts to help Republicans in the November 2008 elections. The event was attended by local State Assembly candidates. Rep. Terry Moulton, the incumbent republican candidate for the 68th Assembly District, and Darcy Fields, the republican candidate in the 93rd Assembly District, gave short speeches at the event. The 68th and 93rd Assembly District races are considered some of the most important in the state. They could help decided which party will have a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Continued.

The Democratic Party of Wisconsin held a news conference in downtown Madison outside the Risser Justice Center to discuss Wisconsin’s Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen’s lawsuit against the Government Accountability Board on September 15, 2008. Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Joe Wineke and Rep. Joe Parisi, D-Madison, spoke at the news conference. Republican Party of Wisconsin Executive Director Mark Jefferson also attended the news conference and took questions from reporters at its conclusion.

Assembly Speaker, Rep. Michael Huebsch, R-West Salem, discussed the September 9, 2008 partisan primary election results with WisconsinEye Public Policy Producer Craig Sauer on September 12, 2008. Huebsch, a campaign coordinator for Assembly Republicans, was interviewed in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio.

Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Madison, discussed the September 9, 2008 partisan primary election results with WisconsinEye Public Policy Producer Craig Sauer on September 10, 2008. Pocan, a campaign coordinator for Assembly Democrats, was interviewed in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio.

Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC) President Mary Bell discussed the group’s role in Wisconsin Elections with Public Policy Producer Craig Sauer on September 3, 2008. The interview took place in the station’s Madison studio.

Candidates from various districts throughout the Madison Area Technical College (MATC) district met on the school’s Madison campus on August 28, 2008 to discuss state legislative issues related to technical colleges. Candidates from the 81st, 46th, 47th, 42nd, 80th, 50th, and 51st were involved in the forum.

U.S. Rep F. James Sensenbrenner and republican primary challenger Jim Burkee appeared at a candidate forum hosted by the Washington County Republican Party on August 27, 2008. The forum was held at the Germantown Village Hall and moderated by Owen Robinson of Boots and Sabers blog. The candidates are seeking to represent Wisconsin’s 5th Congressional District. There is no democratic candidate in the race.

The Lodi Optimist Club hosted a Republican Primary Candidate Forum for the 47th Assembly District on August 27th at the Northern Edge Restaurant in Lodi. Participating candidates included Tim McCumber of Merrimac, Steven Pate of Pardeeville, Keith Ripp or Lodi, and Erich Ruth of DeForest.  The moderator was Bill Haupt.  Candidates had the opportunity to introduce themselves, talk about state government issues, and answer question from the audience.

WisconsinEye had the opportunity to meet Erich Ruth in Lodi on August 27th.  Ruth is a Republican candidate for the 47th Assembly District seat.  Ruth was in Lodi to participate in a Republican Primary Candidate Forum hosted by the Lodi Optimist Club.

Peter Theron, republican candidate for the 2nd Congressional District, announced his bid to unseat incumbent democrat U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin at the East Side Club in Monona on August 23, 2008.

Libertarian Candidate for the 3rd Congressional District Ben Olson III discussed his campaign with WisconsinEye Public Policy Producer Craig Sauer in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio on August 22, 2008. Olson is seeking to unseat incumbent democrat U.S. Ron Kind.

The two democratic candidates in the 47th Assembly District race met for a candidate forum hosted by the Lodi Optimists Club in Lodi on August 20, 2008. The moderator was Bill Haupt.  Candidates had the opportunity to introduce themselves, talk about state government issues, and answer question from the audience.

A group of state and local health organizations played host to a state legislative candidate forum in Black River Falls on August 19, 2008. The forum included republican and democratic candidates from the 91st and 92nd Assembly District and focused on health care issues. It was held at the Skyline Golf Course Banquet Room. The 91st Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and may help determine which political party will have a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Continued.

A group of state and local health organizations played host to a state legislative candidate forum in Black River Falls on August 19, 2008. The forum included republican and democratic candidates from the 91st and 92nd Assembly District and focused on health care issues. It was held at the Skyline Golf Course Banquet Room. Forum Organizer Christine Hovell talked with WisconsinEye following the event.

David Anderson, a republican candidate for the 91st Assembly District, discussed his campaign with WisconsinEye following a candidate forum in Black River Falls on August 19, 2008. The 91st Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and could help determine which party controls the majority in the next legislative session.

Paul Beseler, an independent candidate for the 91st Assembly District, discussed his campaign with WisconsinEye following a candidate forum in Black River Falls on August 19, 2008. The 91st Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and could help determine which party controls the majority in the next legislative session.

Dave Hegenbarth, a republican candidate for the 91st Assembly District, discussed his campaign with WisconsinEye following a candidate forum in Black River Falls on August 19, 2008. The 91st Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and could help determine which party controls the majority in the next legislative session.

Rep. Dean Kaufert, R-Neenah, discussed his re-election campaign in the 55th Assembly District with WisPolitics.com Editor JR Ross on August 19, 2008. The 55th Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and may help determine which political party will have a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session. The interview took place in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio.

Steve Boe, a democratic candidate for the 91st Assembly District, discussed his campaign with WisconsinEye at his family farm in Taylor on August 14, 2008. The 91st Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and could help determine which party controls the majority in the next legislative session.

Winnebago County Republicans gathered at Clayton Park outside of Neenah on August 13, 2008 for an annual corn roast and political rally. Candidates from the county’s numerous races – the 55th, 56th, 53rd and 54th Assembly Districts and 18th Senate District – attended the event and spoke with potential voters and volunteers. The 55th Assembly District Race and the 18th Senate District race are considered to be two of the most important legislative races in the state and could decided which political party will have a majority in the Senate and Assembly during the next legislative session.

The Dane County Democratic Party hosted a legislative candidate forum for candidates running in the 81st Assembly District. All of the race’s six candidates are democrats and the September primary for that race will likely decided who is elected to fill the shoes of retiring democratic legislator David Travis. The forum was held at the Concourse Hotel in Madison on August 13, 2008.

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Rep. Ann Hraychuck, D-Balsam Lake, discussed her re-election campaign in the 28th Assembly District with WisPolitics.com Editor JR Ross on August 13, 2008. The 28th Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and may help determine which political party will have a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session. The interview took place in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio.

Two of the three 1st Congressional District democratic candidates met for a forum at the Janesville Senior Center in Janesville on August 12, 2008. The democrats are seeking to unseat republican incumbent U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan.

Margaret Krupp, a democratic candidate for the 1st Congressional District, discussed her campaign with WisconsinEye on August 12, 2008 following a candidate forum in Janesville. Krupp is seeking to unseat republican incumbent U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan.

Paulette Garin, a democratic candidate for the 1st Congressional District, discussed her campaign with WisconsinEye on August 12, 2008 following a candidate forum in Janesville. Garin is seeking to unseat republican incumbent U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan.

Sen. Alberta Darling, the incumbent republican candidate in the 8th Senate District, discussed her campaign with WisPolitics.com Editor JR Ross on August 11, 2008. Darling was interviewed in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio. The 8th Senate District race is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and may help determine which political party will have a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Steve Pate, republican candidate in the 47th Assembly District, discussed his campaign with WisPolitics.com Editor JR Ross on August 11, 2008. The 47th Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and may help determine which political party will have a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session. The interview took place in WisconsinEye’s Madison offices.

The Rock County Republican Party gathered in Beloit on August 2, 2008 for a “Tailgate to Election Victory.” Special guests at the event included U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Janesville, and Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker. WisconsinEye interviewed Ryan and Walker as well as a number of other candidates and party officials at the event.

Republican candidate for the 37th Assembly District Kent Koebke discussed his campaign to unseat incumbent Rep. Andy Jorgenson, D-Fort Atkinson with WisconsinEye on August 1, 2008.

Libertarian candidate for the 91st Assembly District Ted Burleson discussed his campaign with WisconsinEye on July 31, 2008. Burleson is seeking to replace retiring legislator Rep. Barbara Gronemus, D-Whitehall.

WisPolitics.com Editor JR Ross interviewed republican candidate for the 37th Assembly District Tom Luetzow about his campaign on July 31, 2008. Luetzow was interviewed in WisconsinEye’s Madison Studio. The 37th Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could decide which party will control a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

WisPolitics.com Editor JR Ross interviewed democratic candidate for the 43rd Assembly District Kim Hixson on July 31, 2008. Hixson was interviewed in WisconsinEye’s Madison Studio. The 43rd Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could decide which party will control a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Libertarian Candidate for the 3rd Congressional District Kevin Barrett discussed his campaign to unseat incumbent democrat U.S. Rep. Ron Kind following a Madison press conference on July 31, 2008. Barrett was interviewed by in a state capitol conference room.

John Schiess, a republican candidate for the 93rd Assembly District, was interviewed by WisPolitics.com Editor JR Ross on July 30, 2008 in WisconsinEye's Madison Studio. The 93rd Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could decide which party will control a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Rep. Andy Jorgensen, D-Fort Atkinson, discussed his campaign for re-election with WisPolitics.com Editor JR Ross on July 24, 2008. Jorgensen was interviewed in WisconsinEye’s Madison Studio on July 24, 2008. The 37th Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could decide which party will control a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Robert M. “Mike” Duncan made a second stop on the “Victory 2008 Tour” at a "Wisconsin Victory ’08" headquarters in West Allis. The “Victory 2008 Tour” will make stops in states across the country. The event was followed by a media availability with the Chairman, and RNC and McCain Campaign staff. The event took place on July 24, 2008 at a campaign office in West Allis.

David Kuhle, a republican candidate for the 49th Assembly District, discussed his campaign with WisconsinEye following a candidate forum in Platteville on July 23, 2008. The 49th Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and may help determine which political party will have a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

The League of Women Voters of Platteville hosted a candidate forum for the 49th Assembly District on July 23, 2008 in Platteville. The forum was attended by the three republicans and one democrat seeking that office. The 49th Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and may help determine which political party will have a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

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Lou Ann Weix, a democratic candidate for the 90th Assembly District, discussed her campaign with WisPolitics.com Editor JR Ross on July 22, 2008. The interview took place in WisconsinEye’s Madison Studio. The 90th Assembly District race is considered one of the most important in the state and could determine which party will have a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Rep. Steve Hilgenberg, D-Dodgeville, talked about his campaign for re-election with WisPolitics.com Editor JR Ross on July 22, 2008. The interview took place in WisconsinEye’s Madison Studio. The 51st Assembly District race is considered one of the most important in the state and could determine which party will have a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Rep. Phil Garthwaite, D-Dickeyville, discussed her re-election campaign in the 49th Assembly District with WisPolitics.com Editor JR Ross on July 22, 2008. The 49th Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and may help determine which political party will have a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session. The interview took place in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio.

L. John Peters, a democratic candidate for the 29th Assembly District, discussed his campaign with WisconsinEye following a Dunn County Democratic Party Open House in Menomonie on July 21, 2008. The 29th Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and could help determine which party controls the majority in the next legislative session.

Chris Buckel, a democratic candidate for the 29th Assembly District, discussed his campaign with WisconsinEye following a Dunn County Democratic Party Open House in Menomonie on July 21, 2008. The 29th Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and could help determine which party controls the majority in the next legislative session.

The Dunn County Democratic Party held an open house at their new campaign office in Menomonie on July 21, 2008. Several candidates for the state legislature attended the event and talked politics with those in attendance. Two democrats running in the 29th Assembly District, Chris Buckel and L. John Peters were at the event, as was 10th Senate District Candidate Alison Page. Rep. Jeff Smith, who is the incumbent running in the 93rd Assembly District, also attended the event. The 29th and 93rd Assembly Districts and the 10th Senate District are some of the most important legislative races in the state in 2008. Those races could help decide which party will have a majority in the Assembly and the Senate in the next legislative session.

Dan Mielke, a republican candidate for the 7th Congressional District, spoke with WisconsinEye at the Barron County Fair on July 20, 2008.

Editor of WisPolitics.com, JR Ross, interviewed Nathan Russell, a republican candidate for the 51st Assembly District on July 17, 2008 about his campaign. The interview was conducted in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio. The 51st Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

John Kimmel, a democratic candidate for the 91st Assembly District, discussed his campaign with WisconsinEye following a democratic candidate forum in Mondovi on July 16, 2008. The 91st Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and could help determine which party controls the majority in the next legislative session.

Remy Ceci, a democratic candidate for the 91st Assembly District, discussed her campaign with WisconsinEye following a democratic candidate forum in Mondovi on July 16, 2008. The 91st Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and could help determine which party controls the majority in the next legislative session.

Jim Kraft, a democratic candidate for the 91st Assembly District, discussed his campaign with WisconsinEye following a democratic candidate forum in Mondovi on July 16, 2008. The 91st Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and could help determine which party controls the majority in the next legislative session.

Chris Danou, a democratic candidate for the 91st Assembly District, discussed his campaign with WisconsinEye following a democratic candidate forum in Mondovi on July 16, 2008. The 91st Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and could help determine which party controls the majority in the next legislative session.

Margaret Baecker, a democratic candidate for the 91st Assembly District, discussed her campaign with WisconsinEye following a democratic candidate forum in Mondovi on July 16, 2008. The 91st Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important legislative races in the state and could help determine which party controls the majority in the next legislative session.

Five of the six democratic candidates for the 91st Assembly District participated in a forum hosted by the Buffalo County Democratic Party in Mondovi on July 16, 2008. The event was held at the Martin Center. Chris Danou, Remy Ceci, James Kraft, Margaret Baecker and John Kimmel participated in the event, while Steve Boe was not in attendance. Sen. Katleen Vinehout, D-Alma, moderated the forum. The 91st Assembly District race is considered one of the most important in the state and could determine which party will have a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Paulette Garin, a democratic candidate for the 1st Congressional District, held a listening session at the Janesville Senior Center in Janesville on July 14, 2008. The 1st Congressional District is currently represented by U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Janesville.

U.S. Rep. Russ Feingold, D-Middleton, headlined the grand opening of the Winnebago County Democratic Party Campaign Headquarters in Oshkosh on July 13, 2008. While at the event WisconsinEye talked to a number of local party leaders and candidates for the state legislature including Jessica King, a candidate for the 18th Senate District. The 18th Senate district is considered to be one of the most important in the state because it could help decide which party has a majority in the Senate during the next legislative session.

The Chippewa County Democratic Party held their monthly meeting in Chippewa Falls on July 10th. Al Holle, interim chair of the county party explained about the county, and the party organization.  Special guests included Sen. Pat Kreitlow and Rep. Jeff Smith.  Members discussed options for getting the word out about voting for not only Senator Obama, but the local candidates as well.

Continued.

Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton was the featured speaker at the Brown County Democratic Party Open House event in Green Bay on July 9, 2008. Sen. David Hansen, D-Green Bay, the incumbent candidate for the 30th Senate District in the November 2008 elections also participated in the event. The 30th Senate District is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the Senate in the next legislative session. Brown County is also part of the 8th Congressional District, where the race for that seat is expected to be one of the most hotly contested in the nation in 2008.

Continued. Interview with Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton

Editor of WisPolitics.com, JR Ross, interviewed Kristen Dexter, a democratic candidate for the 68th Assembly District on July 9, 2008 about her campaign. The interview was conducted in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio. The 68th Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Editor of WisPolitics.com, JR Ross, interviewed Jo Egelhoff, a republican candidate for the 57th Assembly District on July 8, 2008 about her campaign. The interview was conducted in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio. The 57th Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Editor of WisPolitics.com, JR Ross, interviewed Sen. Dan Kapanke, R-La Crosse, the incumbent candidate for the 32nd Senate District on July 8, 2008 about his campaign. The interview was conducted in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio. The 32nd Senate District is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the Senate during the next legislative session.

Editor of WisPolitics.com JR Ross interviewed Rep. Sheldon Wasserman, D-Milwaukee, a candidate for the 8th Senate District on July 8, 2008 about his campaign. The interview was conducted in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio. The 8th Senate District is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the Senate during the next legislative session.

Editor of WisPolitics.com JR Ross interviewed Tom Tiffany, a republican candidate for the 12th Senate District on July 8, 2008 about his campaign. The interview was conducted in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio. The 12th Senate District is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the Senate during the next legislative session.

Editor of WisPolitics.com JR Ross interviewed Randy Hopper a republican candidate for the 18th Senate District on July 8, 2008 about his campaign. The interview was conducted in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio. The 18th Senate District is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the Senate during the next legislative session.

Editor of WisPolitics.com JR Ross interviewed Chad Fradette, a republican candidate for the 30th Senate District on July 8, 2008 about his campaign. The interview was conducted in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio. The 30th Senate District is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the Senate during the next legislative session.

Editor of WisPolitics.com JR Ross interviewed Alison Page, a democratic candidate for the 10th Senate District on July 8, 2008 about her campaign. The interview was conducted in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio. The 10th Senate District is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the Senate during the next legislative session.

WisconsinEye followed several candidates on the campaign trail in Menomonee Falls on July 3, 2008 at the community’s Independence Day Parade. Jim Burkee, a republican candidate for the 5th Congressional District and Rep. Sheldon Wasserman, a democratic candidate for the 8th Senate District spoke with WisconsinEye about walking in the parade. Burkee’s republican primary opponent, incumbent U.S. Rep. F. James Sensenbrenner, and Wasserman’s opponent, incumbent Sen. Alberta Darling both walked with supporters in the parade.

John Gard, a republican candidate for the 8th Congressional District held a town hall meeting on gas prices at the Seymour City Hall on July 1, 2008. Gard is running against U.S. Rep. Steve Kagen, who beat Gard in a close race in 2006.

Editor of WisPolitics.com JR Ross interviewed Dennis Lundell, a republican candidate for the 49th Assembly District on June 24, 2008 about his campaign. The interview was conducted in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio. The 49th Senate District is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Editor of WisPolitics.com JR Ross interviewed Rep. Brett Davis, R-Oregon, the incumbent candidate for the 80th Assembly District on June 9, 2008 about his campaign. The interview was conducted in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio. The 80th Assembly District is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could help decide which party controls a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

WisconsinEye caught up with several candidates for the 47th Assembly District at Columbia County’s June Dairy Month Moo Day Brunch, held at a farm in Lodi on June 21, 2008. Republican candidates Tim McCumber and Keith Ripp and independent candidate Dennis Hruby each discussed their campaigns. WisconsinEye was unable to talk to democratic candidate Trish O’Neil, who also attended the event, due to time constraints.

WisPolitics.com Editor JR Ross interviewed democratic candidate for the 55th Assembly District Mark Westphal at the Democratic Party State Convention in Stevens Point on June 14, 2008. Westphal discussed his campaign to unseat republican incumbent Rep. Dean Kaufert, R-Neenah. The 55th Assembly District race is considered to be one of the most important in the state and could decide which party will control a majority in the Assembly during the next legislative session.

Senator Alberta Darling (R-River Hills) officially announce her candidacy for re-election to the State Senate and opened her campaign headquarters on Wednesday, June 4th in Germantown, WI. Senator Darling addressed supporters, acknowledged staff and volunteers as well as described some of the issues she will be running on, such as cutting taxes and spending, reforming health care and strengthening the economy as well as creating jobs.

U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Janesville, held a listening session in Paddock Lake on June 2, 2008. Ryan represents Wisconsin’s 1st Congressional District and is up for re-election in November 2008.

U.S. Rep. F. James Sensenbrenner, Jr., R-Menomonee Falls, held one of several town hall meetings in June at the Meqoun Public Safety Building in Meqoun on June 2, 2008. Sensenbrenner is up for re-election in November 2008.

The Brown County Democratic Party held a campaign kickoff event on June 1, 2008 at the Labor Temple in Green Bay, Wis. At the event Rep. Jim Soletski, who represents the 88th District, announced his candidacy for re-election this fall. Sen. Dave Hansen, who represents the 30th Senate District, who is also up for reelection in November attended the event. Both spoke with WisconsinEye about their reelection campaigns. The 88th Assembly District race and the 30th Senate District race are two races which could help decide which political party will have a majority in the Assembly and the Senate in the next session. Supports gathered at the event for free hotdogs, chips, beer and soda.

U.S. Rep Steve Kagen attended the Brown County June Dairy Month Breakfast at the Old Settlers Dairy in Denmark, Wis. on May 30, 2008. Kagen, who represents Wisconsin’s 8th Congressional District, is up for reelection in November. Wisconsin’s 8th Congressional District, which covers most of the northeast part of state, was the closet election two years ago when Kagen beat out former Wisconsin Assembly Speaker John Gard. Gard is running against Kagen again in 2008.

The Republican Party of Waukesha County held their 58th Annual Lincoln-Reagan Day Dinner in Pewaukee on May 31, 2008. The Dinner is named for President Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan. The Dinner's guest speakers included Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker. U.S Rep. James Sensenbrenner and U.S. Rep Paul Ryan also attended the event. James T. Harris, WTMJ Radio Talk Show Host, was the event's master of ceremonies. The dinner was held at the County Springs Hotel.

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Jason Maddux, editor of the Portage Daily Register, Columbia County’s Daily Newspaper discussed local politics in this interview with WisconsinEye on May 19, 2008. Maddux specifically discussed the 47th Assembly District race. The 47th Assembly District is located in Parts of Columbia, Sauk and Dane Counties and is one of the state legislative contests that could decide which party will have a majority in the State Assembly after November 2008.

La Crosse County Supervisor Tara Johnson announced her campaign to unseat freshman Republican Legislator Dan Kapanke, R-La Crosse, in the 32nd Senate District. Johnson made the announcement at the Lakeview Business Park in West Salem on May 12, 2008. The 32nd Senate District is one of the state legislative races that could decide who will have a majority in the State Senate following the November 2008 elections.

Democratic Candidate for the 47th Assembly District Trish O’Neil spoke with WisconsinEye on May 8, 2008 in Merrimac, Wis. The 47th Assembly District, located in parts of Columbia, Dane and Sauk Counties, is considered to be the home to one of the state legislative contests that could swing the balance of control in the State Assembly. Republicans currently have control of the Assembly and the 47th Assembly District. That post is held by Rep. Eugene Hahn, R-Cambria, who is retiring. O’Neil was in Merrimac to hold a district listening session.

Rep. Andy Jorgensen, D-Fort Atkinson, was one of two featured speakers at a recent meeting of Oconomowoc Democrats. The other was Jim Smith, director of the Assembly Democratic Campaign Committee. Jorgensen, who represents the 37th Assembly District, discussed his candidacy and how he first won an election in an area known for electing Republicans. In 2006, Jorgensen became the first Democrat elected in the district, covering parts of Dane and Jefferson Counties, in 60 years. In 2008, the district could be one of the state legislative contests that could decide who controls the State Assembly. During his remarks at the gathering, Smith discussed the efforts the party is making across the state to recruit Assembly candidates. A number of candidates from surrounding districts also made remarks at the event, which was held at the Main Street Depot Restaurant in Oconomowoc on May 3, 2008.

Raymond Frey, chair of the Columbia County Democratic Party, spoke with WisconsinEye on May 2, 2008 about Columbia County, the county party and the important state legislative races in the area. Columbia County contains parts of the 42nd, 47th and 38th Assembly Districts. The race for the 47th Assembly District, located in parts of Columbia, Dane and Sauk Counties, is considered to be one of the state legislative contests that could swing the balance of control in the State Assembly. Republicans currently have control of the Assembly and the 47th Assembly District. That post is held by Rep. Eugene Hahn, R-Cambria, who is retiring.

The Jefferson County Democratic Party held an Open House to celebrate the opening of their new campaign office in Jefferson on May 1. Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton as well as Rep. Andy Jorgensen, D-Fort Atkinson, delivered remarks at the event. The 37th Assembly District, located in parts of Dane and Jefferson Counties, could be one of the state legislative contests that decides who will control the State Assembly. Jorgensen, who represents that district, was first elected to the seat in 2006, when he became the first Democrat elected there in 60 years.

Paul Fisk, the former Mayor of Lodi and candidate for the 47th Assembly District, spoke to WisconsinEye at campaign kick-off event at a bar in Lodi on May 1, 2008. The 47th Assembly District race, located in parts of Columbia, Dane and Sauk Counties, is considered to be one of the state legislative contests that could swing the balance of control in the State Assembly. Republicans currently have control of the Assembly and the 47th Assembly District. That post is held by Rep. Eugene Hahn, R-Cambria, who is retiring. Sen. Mark Miller, D-Monona, who represents the area, also attended the event.

Former Assembly Speaker John Gard, a republican, announced his second run for Wisconsin’s 8th Congressional District seat at two events in Green Bay and Appleton on April 27, 2008. Gard hopes to unseat U.S. Rep. Steve Kagen, D-Appleton, who defeated Gard in the 2006 midterm elections. After holding an event at Bay Beach Park in Green Bay, WisconsinEye caught up with Gard at Pierce Park in Appleton.

Washington County Democratic Party Chair Michael Schlotfeldt spoke with WisconsinEye about Washington County politics and the state legislative races which Washington County voters will help decide. One of those districts, the 8th Senate District is considered a swing district and could help decide who will control the State Senate. The seat is currently held by Sen. Alberta Darling, R-River Falls. It is being challenged by Rep. Sheldon Wasserman, D-Milwaukee.

U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold was the main draw at the Green County Democratic Party’s Spring Fundraiser on April 20, 2008. Feingold talked national and state politics at the event held in Monroe, Wis., located in Green County. Green County is located within Wisconsin’s 80th Assembly District, one of the state legislative contests that could swing the balance of control in the State Assembly. The Republicans currently have control of the Assembly and the 80th Assembly District. That post is held by Republican lawmaker Rep. Brett Davis of Oregon.

Susan Kinast-Porter, Green County Democratic Party Chair, spoke with WisconsinEye about Green County and the 80th State Assembly District on April 20, 2008. Green County is located within Wisconsin’s 80th Assembly District, one of the state legislative contests that could swing the balance of control in the State Assembly. The Republicans currently have control of the Assembly and the 80th Assembly District. That post is held by Republican lawmaker Rep. Brett Davis of Oregon. Kinast-Porter was interviewed during the Green County Democratic Party’s Spring Fundraiser in Monroe, Wis.

John Waelti, a democratic candidate for the 80th Assembly District, discussed his candidacy with WisconsinEye on April 20, 2008. Green County is located within Wisconsin’s 80th Assembly District, one of the state legislative contests that could swing the balance of control in the State Assembly. The Republicans currently have control of the Assembly and the 80th Assembly District. That post is held by Republican lawmaker Rep. Brett Davis of Oregon. Waelti was interviewed during the Green County Democratic Party’s Spring Fundraiser in Monroe, Wis.

Kristin Ann Wisnefske, a democratic candidate for the 80th Assembly District, discussed her candidacy with WisconsinEye on April 20, 2008. Green County is located within Wisconsin’s 80th Assembly District, one of the state legislative contests that could swing the balance of control in the State Assembly. The Republicans currently have control of the Assembly and the 80th Assembly District. That post is held by Republican lawmaker Rep. Brett Davis of Oregon. Wisnefske was interviewed during the Green County Democratic Party’s Spring Fundraiser in Monroe, Wis.

Editor of WisPolitics.com JR Ross interviewed Kevin Kennedy, director and legal counsel of the Government Accountability Board, and Andrea Kaminiski, executive director of the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin about the Wisconsin election process from WisconsinEye's Madison Studio on April 10. Kennedy and Kaminiski reviewed the spring election on April 1, new procedures and equipment used in voting and the role of the Government Accountability Board in future elections.

Filling in for host Steve Walters, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Stacy Forster, led a panel of reporters in a discussion of the week's major news stories in state politics. This week’s program focused on the State Supreme Court race. Featured guests included WisPolitics.com's JR Ross, WISC-TV's Jessica Arp, Shawn Johnson of Wisconsin Public Radio and Patrick Marley of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Justice Louis Butler addressed supporters and the press Wednesday, April 2, 2008 at the Milwaukee County Courthouse to speak on the Supreme Court race election results. Butler stated how honored he feels to have served Wisconsin as a Supreme Court Justice, and that he acknowledges that the voters have now made a new choice to sit on the court.

Justice Louis Butler's Campaign for re-election to the Wisconsin Supreme Court held an election night results party at Riverfront Pizzeria in Milwaukee on Tuesday night, April 1, 2008. Supporters enjoyed pizza while watching results come in on several televisions placed throughout the party. Butler made a short statement thanking his supporters while results were pouring in. The party ended before official final results were reported.

Michael Gableman's campaign gathered in Milwaukee to watch the polls on election night, April 1, 2008, for the Supreme Court Justice seat. Gableman is declared the winner moments before midnight.

Andrea Kaminski, Executive Director for the League for Women Voters of Wisconsin spoke with WisconsinEye contributor John Powell about the efforts the organization makes to education the public about the elections process. Kaminiski also spoke about the group’s advocacy efforts. The interview took place in WisconsinEye’s Madison studio on March 27, 2008.

Judge Gableman was the invited guest for the March 26th Madison Rotary meeting at the Inn on the Park in Madison.

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The Milwaukee Bar Association (MBA) was host to a candidates forum for the Wisconsin Supreme Court, Wisconsin Court of Appeals and Milwaukee County Circuit Court seats. This moderated forum was open to MBA members and the general public, where questions of the candidates by those attending were submitted to the moderator. “These forums fall in line with the MBA’s 150 year old mission of increasing public awareness of the crucial roll that the law plays in the lives of the people of Milwaukee”, says James Temmer, Executive Director of the MBA. “These provide our members and the residents of Milwaukee County the opportunity to learn more about the people who will enforce the laws of Wisconsin before they cast their vote.”

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Supreme Court Justice Louis Butler and the Hon. Michael Gableman, candidates for the Wisconsin Supreme Court, participated in a debate at the Concourse Hotel in Madison Wisconsin. Hosted by the Dane County Bar Association, the candidates made opening and closing statements as well as answered questions offered by the audience. Justice Butler is being challenged by Burnett County Circuit Judge Michael Gableman. The winner in the April 1 election will serve a 10-year term.

Prior to a speech by Republican Presidential Candidate U.S. Sen. John McCain, R-Arizona, Burnett County Circuit Court Judge Michael Gableman, a candidate for the Wisconsin Supreme Court, gave a speech and shook hands at the Milwaukee County Reagan Day Dinner on February 28 in Milwaukee.