(The Center Square) – Two more Wisconsin Republicans announced onTuesday that they will not be running for reelection as Sen. Jesse James, R-Thorp, and Rep. Scott Allen, R-Waukesha, will not attempt to retain their seats.
James called it a retirement from the Senate while Allen, who recently lost his bid to become the next Waukesha mayor, called it a sabbatical from public office.
“I had the opportunity of a lifetime,” James said in a statement. “However, this role came at a price, a price of being away from my family. For this reason, and for other personal reasons I have decided to retire from the Wisconsin State Senate. It has been an honor and a privilege to represent the people of the 23rd Senate District.”
Others who won’t be running for reelection include Rep. Rob Brooks, R-Saukville, Rep. Jerry O’Connor, R-Fond du Lac, Sen, Rob Hutton, R-Brookfield, Sen. Steve Nass, R-Whitewater, and Sen. Van Wanggaard, R-Racine.
Rep. Calvin Callahan, R-Tomahawk, announced that he will be running again for his seat.
Republican Michele Magadance Skinner announced that she will be running for James’ seat. Skinner fell to Jodi Emerson for the District 91 seat in the Assembly in 2024. She thanked James’ for his endorsement in the race, making her announcement right as James public said he would be retiring.
“On the Eau Claire County Board, I have seen firsthand the impact the state government can have on our community,” Skinner said in a statement. “Hardworking families deserve a Senator in Madison who will roll their sleeves up, work across the aisle, and deliver. That’s what Senator James did, and that’s what I will do as your next State Senator.”
Allen was first elected to the Assembly in 2014 and has been reelected every two years since.
“Scott has served with honesty, integrity, and a deep respect for this institution,” Assembly Majority Leader Tyler August, R-Walworth, said in a statement. “He has always approached his role with a clear sense of responsibility, focusing on doing the job the right way and staying true to the people he represents.
“He has been a thoughtful and principled member of our caucus, someone who took the time to understand the issues and speak with sincerity.”
Republican Bryson Reyes announced on Tuesday that he would run for Allen’s seat. Reyes is an Army veteran who works in manufacturing.
“I am running for State Assembly because I want to fight for the American dreams of my
family and my neighbors,” Reyes said in a statement. “I see lack of economic opportunity for the people who call this place home. Overregulation and lack of support from Madison for our small businesses inhibit growth and do not provide long-term stability for working families.”
