MADISON, WI (WSAU) Governor Walker could name state Senator Sheila Harsdorf as his agriculture secretary soon. The River Falls Republican would replace Ben Brancel, who stepped down in August.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports Harsdorf may be named to the post as soon as Thursday.
Harsdorf is 61 and is a member of the powerful Joint Finance Committee. Her brother had served as state ag secretary for two years starting in 2001.
Her district includes Pierce, St Croix, Polk and Burnett counties in western Wisconsin. A special election would need to be held to fill out the remainder of her term in the state senate.
The MetroSource news wire contributed to this report.