64th Assembly District Candidates In Democratic Primary Debate

What are the differences between the three candidates seeking the Democratic Party’s nomination in the 64th Assembly District special election?

One candidate stands out in particular because he’s mostly a Republican, having run unsuccessfully as a Republican numerous times. "I've always wanted to serve my country," said Spencer Zimmerman of Janesville. "That's why I joined the Air Force," he said. "And I don't give up," adding that this is "probably the 15th or 16th election that I've been on the ballot." 

Also on the Apr. 2nd ballot is Gina Walkington, who said.she deserves support because of her background as a cancer survivor, someone who has fought insurance companies on behalf of a developmentally delayed child, member of a union household and co-founder of the progressive political action group Forward Kenosha. "Because of these experiences, I'm ready to stand up for you and fight for a living wage, to close the gender pay gap and deliver desperately needed paid family leave," she told the audience.  

The third candidate, criminal prosecutor and former BArca legislative staffer Tip McGuire, is the only candidate who currently lives in the district. "I don't mean to diminish the accomplishments of my opponents, but I've been working in the 64th Assembly District to help people here...a long time," he said. 

The special election was scheduled after Peter Barca vacated the seat to become state Revenue Dept. Secretary. 

The debate, held Wednesday night in the Madrigrano Auditorium at Gateway in Kenosha, was co-sponsored by Forward Kenosha, the Kenosha County Democratic Party and WGTD. The event was streamed live on WGTD's Facebook page where it's also available as an archived recording. For video from the debate, click here. 

The winner of the primary will face Republican Mark Stalker Apr. 30th.

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