State Senator
GENERAL ELECTION, November 5, 2024
I, Commissioner Ann Jacobs, chairperson of the Wisconsin Elections Commission, certify that the attached tabular statements, as compiled from the certified returns made to the Wisconsin Elections Commission by the county clerks of the several counties of the state, contain a correct abstract of the total number of votes given for the election of candidates for State Senator, at a General Election held in the several cities, villages, towns, wards and election districts in said counties on the Fifth day of November, 2024.
I DO, THEREFORE, DETERMINE AND CERTIFY that the following candidates, having each received the greatest number of votes in their respective senatorial districts, are duly elected State Senator:
Senate District Elected
2nd District Eric Wimberger
4th District Dora Drake
6th District LaTonya Johnson
8th District Jodi Habush Sinykin
10th District Rob Stafsholt
12th District Mary Felzkowski
14th District Sarah Keyeski
16th District Melissa Ratcliff
18th District Kristin Alfheim
20th District Daniel Feyen
22nd District Robert W. Wirch
24th District Patrick Testin
26th District Kelda Helen Roys
28th District Julian Bradley
30th District Jamie Wall
32nd District Brad Pfaff
Done in the City of Milwaukee, this 29th day of November 2024.
ANN JACOBS
Commissioner, Chairperson
Wisconsin Elections Commission
_____________
With unanimous consent, the party leaders introduced their newly elected respective members.
Senator LeMahieu Introduced Senator Wimberger
“Born and raised in De Pere, Eric graduated from East De Pere High School and attended St. Cloud State University. There he served as student body president and graduated with a degree in criminal justice. He drove semi-trucks for Schneider National before enrolling in Marquette University Law School. Upon graduation, he commissioned in the United States Marine Corps and served as a Judge Advocate stationed in Japan and Washington DC. Eric was honorably discharged as a Captain and returned home to Green Bay in 2010 where he continued his service to the community by opening a local law practice.
Eric remains dedicated to giving back, including through his work as a board member with the philanthropic Cloud Family Foundation. He is also dedicated to helping his mom, Wendy, run Sweet Memories Candy Shoppe in Lakewood.”
Senator Hesselbein Introduced Senator Drake
“Dora Drake is a born and raised Milwaukeean who grew up in the Graceland neighborhood. She was accepted into the Educational Opportunities Program at Marquette University and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Social Welfare and Justice in 2015. Dora, herself, was a first generation student who now focuses on tangible policies and strives to create results people can see in their daily lives.
By focusing on literacy and opportunities for our youth, fostering economic stability for families, building criminal justice initiatives, and creating a space for vital re-entry services, she paves the way for a brighter and more equitable future for her constituents. She was proud to represent the 11th Assembly District, which is located on the north side of Milwaukee. She enjoys connecting with her constituents to listen to any concerns for themselves and their community, supporting their aspirations, and being a resource for opportunities. She looks forward to continue representing those same constituents and more as a Senator now in the Brilliant 4th Senate District.
As a Senator, Dora will work as the ranking Democrat on the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Service while also working on the Senate Committees on Health and the Joint Committee on Criminal Penalties. Furthermore, she will lead as the Assistant Vice Chair of the Senate Democrat Caucus as well as the Chair of the Wisconsin Legislative Black Caucus.”
Senator Hesselbein Introduced Senator Johnson
“Senator LaTonya Johnson represents the 6th Senate District, which includes Milwaukee’s north and west sides as well as a portion of Wauwatosa. The district is home to some of Wisconsin’s most vibrant communities, universities and entertainment centers. including the Wisconsin Center District, Fiserv Forum, Marquette University and America’s Black Holocaust Museum.
First elected to the Wisconsin Senate in 2016, Senator Johnson previously served two terms in the State Assembly representing Milwaukee’s 17th District. As a former daycare owner, she also made history by helping to organize the state’s first child care union, AFSCME Local 502, she also served as president, and led efforts to improve the lives of children, their families, and in-home daycare providers throughout the state of Wisconsin. She remains a proud, dues-paying member to this day.
Born in La Grange, Tennessee, Senator Johnson moved to Milwaukee over 35 years ago. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the HBCU Tennessee State University. Senator Johnson lives in Milwaukee with the company of many four-legged companions and has one daughter, Sydney.”
Senator Hesselbein Introduced Senator Habush Sinykin
“Senator Jodi Habush Sinykin is proud to be sworn in to represent Wisconsin’s 8th Senate District, which includes portions of Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington, and Waukesha Counties, and includes a beautiful stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline. A lifelong Wisconsinite, Jodi grew up in Fox Point, attended Nicolet High School, and went on to earn her undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and her law degree from Harvard Law School. She lives in Whitefish Bay with her husband, Dan, and is the proud mother of their four adult children: Sam, Elliana, Zach, and Justin.
Before joining the State Senate, Senator Habush Sinykin built a career as an environmental attorney and policy expert, working on behalf of statewide coalitions to help enact landmark legislation like the Great Lakes Compact and Wisconsin’s Puppy Mill Bill. She has also taught water policy and environmental justice at UW-Milwaukee’s School of Freshwater Sciences and spent more than a decade as a trial lawyer in Chicago and Milwaukee, including at Habush Habush and Rottier. Additionally, Senator Habush Sinykin and her husband own a manufacturing business, bringing an important perspective to her work advocating for workers and small businesses. Senator Habush Sinykin has been active with many local and statewide environmental and community organizations, which has long been part of her passion for public service, protecting our natural resources, and improving people's lives.
Senator Habush Sinykin’s commitment to bipartisanship and her belief in the importance of collaborative leadership have guided her journey into public service. Her decision to run for the State Senate in 2023 and again in 2024 was fueled by a desire to make government work for Wisconsin families and communities. With a focus on common-sense solutions and a dedication to serving her constituents, Senator Habush Sinykin brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for advancing the values that make Wisconsin strong.”
Senator LeMahieu Introduced Senator Stafsholt
“A life long resident of St. Croix County, Rob Stafsholt graduated from New Richmond Public Schools and attended the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire and the University of Wisconsin – River Falls.
A proud father and dedicated community member, Rob has built a diverse career as a farmer, business owner, and coach. Rob has owned and operated a waste disposal company and a residential rental and real estate investment business. He was formally a co-owner of a salad and food dressings manufacturing company, and worked as a mortgage loan originator. He also gave back to the community as a volunteer coach for the New Richmond-Somerset High School trap team. An active member of numerous groups and associations, Rob is a life member of the NRA and a member of the New Richmond Chamber of Commerce. He previously served on the Erin Prairie Township planning commission and the Wisconsin Association of Mortgage Brokers.
Rob was first elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly in 2016 and 2018 before being elected to the State Senate in 2020 and 2024. He continues to advocate for his constituents and work for the betterment of Wisconsin.”
Senator LeMahieu Introduced Senator Felzkowski
“Senate President Mary Felzkowski was born and raised in Tomahawk, Wisconsin. She is a graduate of Tomahawk High School and went on to receive her bachelor’s degree in economics and finance from the University of Wisconsin – River Falls.
Mary has owned and operated C.I.S. Insurance Group in Tomahawk for 40 years. She is married with five children and five grandchildren. Throughout the years, she served on various boards both local and national, and she is a lifetime member of the NRA.
Mary was first elected to the Assembly in 2012 and was the Assistant Majority Leader in 2019. She was elected to the Senate in 2020 where she has chaired committees on insurance, forestry, and small business. Senator Felzkowski has spent 4 sessions on the Joint Finance Committee, serving on the committee in both the Assembly and the Senate. Mary is beginning her second term in the State Senate and her first as Senate President.”
Senator Hesselbein Introduced Senator Keyeski
“Senator Sarah Keyeski is the newly elected senator representing the 14th Senate District, which includes all of Richland and Sauk counties and parts of Adams, Columbia, Dane, Juneau, and Vernon counties. This district is primarily in the beautiful driftless region and is home to Devil’s Lake State Park, the Wisconsin Dells, Circus World Museum, the Dane County Airport, Lake Wisconsin and the Pine River Recreation Trail.
Senator Keyeski grew up on a family farm in Cashton, Wisconsin with her parents and four siblings. Her dad was a dairy farmer and a union railroad worker, and her mom was a registered nurse. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Luther College in Iowa and then her master’s degree in psychology from Northwestern University in Illinois and became a licensed professional counselor. She has worked as a mental health provider for the past 25 years at a rural clinic and for the past six years she has also had her own private practice. Senator Keyeski was the founder of a local non-profit organization, “Lift Lodi,” which was formed following the COVID-19 crisis with the mission of cultivating a sense of community connectedness through devoted days of service uplifting Lodi’s shared environment.
Senator Keyeski has lived a life of service because of the example set by her parents. She finds deep purpose in improving the lives of others in her career and in a variety of volunteer efforts, from being a Girl Scout Leader to participating in mission trips and serving on multiple boards. Keyeski is honored and excited to serve in her new capacity as a legislator representing the 14th District.
Senator Keyeski is married to her husband, Rod, and together they raise six children, Max, Jack, Addison, Harrison, Josie and Ellie. She enjoys spending time with her family, doing anything creative and hiking on the Ice Age State Trail.”
Senator Hesselbein Introduced Senator Ratcliff
“Senator Melissa Ratcliff has deep roots in the new 16th Senate District. The district includes Cottage Grove, Sun Prairie, Fitchburg, Stoughton, Cambridge, Fort Atkinson, an area on Madison’s far east side, two townships in Dodge County, and communities across eastern Dane County and western Jefferson County.
Senator Ratcliff brings a unique perspective to our work. She has served at multiple levels of government including on the Cottage Grove Village Board, the Dane County Board and in the State Assembly. Her commitment to her local communities is deep and extensive. She is an active volunteer for numerous civic groups…it is a long list! She was honored as Ally of the Year for 2024 by the Sun Prairie’s Colonial Club and is a founding member of the Miracle League of Dane County.
Throughout all her public service, Senator Ratcliff has focused on defending reproductive rights, advocating for the health and safety of our LGBTQ+ neighbors, expanding access to broadband, increasing housing affordability, and family friendly policies including access to affordable childcare.
Senator Ratcliff was born in Green Bay, grew up in Wausau and graduated from Wausau East High School. No stranger to hard work, she worked third shift before earning her Paralegal certificate. Senator Ratcliff lives in Cottage Grove with her two children Dan and Adeline and their two dogs, Lucy and Ricky. After starting a 10,000 step-a-day streak during the fall campaign (a streak that continues!), she gets outside often to hike and enjoys spending time with her family.”
Senator Hesselbein Introduced Senator Dassler-Alfheim
“Joining the State Senate this year, Kristin Dassler-Alfheim represents Senate District 18, which encompasses the cities of Oshkosh, Neenah, Menasha, and Appleton. The district is home to two traditional four year universities, UW-Oshkosh and Lawrence University, and a two-year tech school, Fox Valley Technical College.
Prior to serving as a State Senator, Dassler-Alfheim spent her career as an agency manager and retirement planner, working to help middle-class families navigate the complexities of retirement. For many years she was active as an advocate for both the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors and the Alzheimer’s Association, where she helped to build bipartisan coalitions in the statehouse.
In 2020, Dassler-Alfheim realized the importance of local government and chose to run for her local alderperson seat, winning and serving on the Appleton City Council. While in office, she worked to ensure that local government was responsive to the needs of its citizens, and helped to pass city ordinances that provided funds for a new library and ensured that the city’s tax dollars were spent efficiently.
Dassler-Alfheim is proud to represent her 98 year old grandmother and beloved family who joins her in chambers today, and she feels privileged to be serving as a State Senator for her community. She is excited to bring her skills in coalition-building to work in the Capitol to pass pragmatic, bipartisan legislation that uplifts the people of Wisconsin.”
Senator LeMahieu Introduced Senator Feyen
“Dan Feyen is the Assistant Majority Leader of the Wisconsin State Senate, serving since 2019. First elected in 2016, he represents the 20th Senate District, which includes parts of Dodge, Fond du Lac, Ozaukee, Sheboygan and Washington Counties. He chairs the Senate committee on Government Operations, Labor and Economic Development and serves on several other committees. In addition to his legislative work, Senator Feyen serves on the Board of Directors of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and the Southeast Wisconsin Professional Baseball Park District.
Born and raised in New Holstein, Wisconsin, he earned a degree in printing from Fox Valley Technical College. He resides in Fond du Lac with his wife, Lori, and their two children, a daughter who is a teacher and a son who is an auditor. Both are proud UW-Madison graduates.”
Senator Hesselbein Introduced Senator Wirch
“Robert W. Wirch was born in Kenosha in 1943 and never left, dedicating his life to the people of his community and the great state of Wisconsin. He attended Mary D. Bradford High School in Kenosha, and entered the workforce after graduation. While working at the American Brass Company, Senator Wirch attended night classes at the University of Wisconsin – Parkside in order to obtain his bachelor’s degree, which he did in 1970. On top of his job and studies, Wirch served his nation as a member of the United States Army Reserves form 1965-1971.
Senator Wirch’s political career began with his work at American Brass, where he was a member of the United Steelworkers union, serving in multiple leadership positions in his local including as vice president. He served eight years on the Kenosha County Board of Supervisors, and in 1992 was elected to his first term as a Representative in the State Assembly. After two terms in the Assembly, he was elected to the State Senate in 1996 and has held the seat ever since.”
Senator LeMahieu Introduced Senator Testin
“Patrick Testin grew up in Marinette, Wisconsin and graduated from Marinette High School in 2006. He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from UW-Stevens Point in 2011, where he was active in student government.
Elected to the Wisconsin State Senate in 2016, Patrick has served in leadership roles including President Pro Tempore and Majority Caucus Vice Chair. Patrick is an active member of his community, contributing his time and leadership to organizations like the Stevens Point Elk Lodge 641, the Ignite Leadership Network of Portage County, and the Wisconsin Wing of the Civil Air Patrol Legislative Squadron.”
Senator Hesselbein Introduced Senator Roys
“Senator Kelda Helen Roys is an attorney, entrepreneur, small business owner, and former nonprofit executive. She represents Wisconsin’s 26th Senate District, which includes most of Madison and several surrounding communities.
Sen. Roys is entering her second term in the State Senate, where she will continue to fight for reproductive freedom, economic opportunity, and great public education for every child in Wisconsin.
Sen. Roys received her BA in Drama, Politics, and Cultural Studies magna cum laude from New York University and her JD magna cum laude from the University of Wisconsin Law School, where she worked on the Innocence Project. After spending four years as executive director of NARAL Pro-Choice Wisconsin, she was elected twice to the State Assembly and served as Democratic Caucus Chair. In 2013, she founded OpenHomes, a real estate brokerage serving customers throughout southern Wisconsin, which she continues to run. Sen. Roys is a member of the Joint Committee on Finance, Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules, and Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety. Kelda has earned many legislative awards and fellowships and has been an active community leader for decades, serving on many boards.
Kelda and her spouse, Dan, live in Madison with their children. Kelda thanks her family for all their support and love, and for being here today, especially Arcadia and Avalon.”
Senator LeMahieu Introduced Senator Bradley
“Julian Bradley knows the American dream is alive and well because he’s lived it. Born into poverty, Julian learned the values of honesty, diligence and perseverance from his mother, who raised him and his two siblings by herself.
Julian’s journey has taken him down many unique paths and all over the country. He first distinguished himself as a professional wrestler, leading to his eventual induction into the WXW Wrestling Hall of Fame. He successfully climbed the ladder in business, managing successful sales and operations teams in both the telecommunications and insurance industries.
In 2020, Julian made history becoming the first black republican elected to serve in the Wisconsin State Senate. He came in with a mission to put his conservative principals to work in order to solve problems and get results for his constituents. He’s done just that. He’s earned a reputation as a taxpayer champion, a public safety advocate, and a leader for literacy. He’s also had a hand in authoring two successful constitutional amendments to help improve our justice system and election security. In his second term, he’s looking forward to being a member of the Joint Finance Committee and crafting a budget that strengthens Wisconsin.
A resident of New Berlin, Julian is an avid sports fan, namely football and baseball and enjoys giving back to his community. When he’s not attending various games or events with his family and friends, Julian spends his free time volunteering with a particular focus on helping young people with career readiness and literacy.”
Senator Hesselbein Introduced Senator Wall
“Jamie Wall is the new senator from the 30th District in the heart of Brown County, including Ashwaubenon, Allouez, Bellevue, and De Pere, almost all of Green Bay, and portions of the Towns of Ledgeview and Rockland. The district is home to Lambeau Field, Bay Beach, the National Railroad Museum, and Heritage Hill State Historical Park. US News recently named the Green Bay metro as the single best place to live in America.
Senator Wall was born in Green Bay and raised on his family’s small dairy farm in southern Brown County. A first-generation college student, Jamie earned degrees from UW – Madison and Oxford and worked on both coasts before coming home to Green Bay, where he has lived most of his adult life. He started and ran his own small business advising companies in Wisconsin and throughout the country on how to find and implement solutions to difficult problems. He also spent a couple of years running Wisconsin’s economic development programs, working with large and small businesses across the state to create jobs.
Jamie is active in his community, serving as vice president of the Green Bay Water Commission and as treasurer of his local neighborhood association. He is a former board member of the Wisconsin 4-H Foundation and the Clean Wisconsin Action Fund. He and his cat Gertrude live in the Astor East River neighborhood of Green Bay.”
Senator Hesselbein Introduced Senator Pfaff
