There are two high profile Republican congressional primaries in Wisconsin today (August 9). One is in the First Congressional District (southeastern Wisconsin) where incumbent Congressman Paul Ryan (R-Janesville) faces off against Paul Nehlen.
As Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Ryan is one of the highest ranking members in either house of Congress. He is also third in the line of succession for the presidency, which makes him the highest ranking federal government official from Wisconsin in state history.
Ryan’s voting record is solidly pro-job growth. He earned a 94 percent rating from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in 2015 and a 97 percent rating from the National Association of Manufacturers last session.
The other election is in the Eighth Congressional District (northeastern Wisconsin). Incumbent Congressman Reid Ribble is not seeking reelection. Mike Gallagher, a former Marine officer who served two tours of duty during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, faces State Senator Frank Lasse, who has represented northeastern Wisconsin in the legislature (both Senate and Assembly) beginning in 1994.
The winner will face Democrat Tom Nelson in November. Nelson is currently Outagamie County Executive.
