UNDATED (WTAQ) – The Assembly co-chair of the Legislature’s Joint Finance Committee says he will not run for Congress.
John Nygren (R-Marinette) released a statement Thursday confirming he will not seek the open seat in Wisconsin’s 8th Congressional District.
“After taking a few weeks to consider my options and speak with my family, I have decided to not run to replace Congressman Reid Ribble. I took to heart Congressman Ribble’s reasons for retiring, specifically when it came to his family. At a time when my son is in high school, a daughter is leaving for college, and my oldest is taking great steps in recovery, now is not the time to make the move to Washington,” Nygren said.
“I have no doubt that I would be successful in my campaign, nor do I question my ability to enact change in Washington, but I believe my place is still in Marinette and Madison. I look forward to continue serving as Co-Chair of the Joint Committee on Finance, shepherding common sense fiscal reforms that have, and will continue to bring prosperity to Wisconsin,” the statement reads. “I would be remiss to not acknowledge the many people that have offered me their well-wishes and prayers as I contemplated this decision. I hope to continue serving you well in Madison.”
While several area Republicans are still considering a Congressional run, only Wisconsin State Senator Frank Lasee (R-De Pere) has formally thrown his hat into the ring.
On the Democratic side, former Wisconsin State Rep. Penny Bernard Schaber has announced she will run in the 8th Congressional District. Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson, a former Wisconsin Assembly Majority Leader, is also considering a run.
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