BY KRIS LEONHARDT
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
NORTHEAST WISCONSIN – Four candidates have launched their campaigns for the Wisconsin’s Eighth Congressional District following a retirement announcement from Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI).
After stating in February that he would not be seeking reelection, Gallagher announced late last month that he will be stepping down from his seat in April.
On April 4, Dr. Kristin Lyerly OB/GYN launched her campaign at Hinterland Brewery as the lone Democratic candidate to throw their hat in the ring.
“As a physician, I know what it’s like to deal with the bureaucracy in the healthcare system and the tough choices patients and families have to make every day,” Lyerly stated during her announcement. “Healthcare is a fundamental human right, not a privilege reserved for the few. I will work tirelessly to ensure that every person in our district has access to affordable and meaningful healthcare.
“I’ve always advocated for my patients and will be in an even better position to continue that fight for all of our district’s residents when I’m elected to Congress.”
Three others have announced their campaign for the Republican ticket — State Sen. Andre Jacque, former state senator Roger Roth and Tony Wied.
Jacques announced his campaign on March 4 stating, “Living in and representing the Northeast portion of the state has afforded me the opportunity to meet many neighbors who have become friends. I’ve worked tirelessly in the Senate to serve them and make the lives of their families, and mine, better. I’m proud of my record delivering conservative wins and fighting back against liberal policies that would harm our state.”
He has served as a member of the Wisconsin Senate since 2019.
Roth announced his candidacy back in February following Gallagher’s announcement, releasing the following statement, “We must solidify our border and strengthen our national security, our economy and our traditional values. Our federal government is failing us. It is our duty to preserve and protect our great nation now and for our future.” 4
Roth was a member of the Wisconsin Senate from 2015 to 2023, representing Wisconsin’s 19th Senate District.
On April 8, former Green Bay businessman Tony Wied entered the race.
“Our career politicians are failing us and there’s way too much at stake in this country for me to stay on the sidelines,” Tony Wied said. “I was in business for 30 years and I was fortunate enough to sell my business and I’m interested in serving this country.
“I love America and I have the ability and I have the time to spend to really helping America and getting involved and fighting for change.”
Wisconsin’s Eighth Congressional District currently includes Brown, Calumet, Door, Kewaunee, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, and Waupaca counties, and part of Winnebago County.
Watch for further candidate coverage as the August primary draws closer.