Embattled Republican Incumbent Bob Donovan Dodges Candidate Forum
GREENDALE, Wis. — Amid a failure to answer questions about whether he actually lives in the district he represents, or whether he used campaign contributions to enrich himself, embattled Republican incumbent Bob Donovan dodged a candidate forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County on October 12.
Democratic candidate Ben Brist, a United States Army veteran, is challenging Donovan in the 61st Assembly District, which is viewed as one of the most competitive and consequential in the state. It covers all of Hales Corners and Greendale, as well as parts of Franklin, Greenfield, and Milwaukee.
“Our state government can and should work better for everyday people,” said Brist, who showed up and talked to voters at the October 12 candidate forum. “It’s time for the state Legislature to step up to today’s challenges that are holding families back, like the rising cost of property taxes, health care, and child care. The more I talk to voters, the more it’s clear people think their government is out of touch with their lives. The status quo isn’t working. I’m running because it’s time for new leadership that is responsive and accountable to you, not the billionaires making your life more expensive.”
Donovan, who was first elected to the Assembly in 2022, is once again facing scrutiny about his residency status. An October 6 story published by the Milwaukee Courier reported that Donovan did not respond to questions about whether he lives in the district or whether he used campaign contributions to pay his personal housing costs for an apartment he is renting.
Photo 1: Democratic candidate Ben Brist talking to voters at the October 12 candidate forum.
Photo 2: Democratic candidate Ben Brist sits next to an empty chair and name placard for incumbent Republican Bob Donovan, who failed to show up and defend his record.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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