Today 35th Assembly Representative Donald Friske announced that he won’t seek another term. The Merrill Republican was first elected in 2000 in an upset. Friske beat out incumbent Democrat Sarah Waukau, garnering 55% of the vote. Since then he’s held his seat relatively comfortably but with him out, it leaves the race wide open.
This morning I had a chance to meet up with him at his business in Merrill and he chatted about some of the issues facing the current legislature and future bodies.
This afternoon Friske’s 2008 democratic opponent, Jay Schmelling, sent out a letter wishing Friske well and hinting at the future.
I would like to thank Don Friske for his years of service in the Legislature and wish him and his family good-luck and success in the future.
The voters have important issues to consider in the April election. Candidates on the spring ballot need the media to communicate with voters. My campaign team is in place from the 2008 election and I’ve been laying ground work for a run in 2010 regardless of Don’s decision. In the coming weeks I’ll continue talking with voters in my district and announce my decision at an appropriate time.
However, Schmelling isn’t the only Democrat eyeing up the seat. According to some pol watchers, former Merrill Area Public School Board member Renea Frederick could be looking for an in.
On the Republican side, expect an announcement soon.
Posted under Campaigns, Current Affairs, Politics
This post was written by Katie Rosenberg on March 5, 2010