The coronation of State Sen. Julie Lassa as the Democratic candidate for Dave Obey's Congressional seat takes another step forward as Kevin Shibilski, who held the Senate seat before Lassa, says he won't run.
Shibilski, pictured, could have self-funded a race and given Lassa a real run. One other Portage County Dem, State Rep. Louis Molepske, is still thinking about it.
Molepske and State Rep. Amy Sue Vruwink weren't even invited to the secret weekend conclave where Lassa was crowned, and he's not ready yet to say he won't run. Here's what Shibilski had to say:
It is no secret that I have had a desire to run for Congress if the opportunity should arise. Since I learned of Dave Obey’s decision, I have seriously considered entering the race. I believe I would have been a strong candidate with a good chance of success, and I’m grateful to the hundreds of people who expressed their support and encouraged me to run.
I would be less than honest if I didn’t admit that I wish there had been more time and a more open process to select a candidate. I think primaries are healthy, test a candidate, and give the winner momentum and energy.
However, I have reluctantly decided not to run.
It is more important to elect a Democrat to succeed Dave Obey than it is to elect Kevin Shibilski.
There is a short time frame for this campaign; the Republicans have a head start. I will be as active as I can be, in any way I can, to see that Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District remains in the Democratic column.
Milwaukee News Buzz writes about the controversy over the candidate selection process. But the author thinks yours truly is a prominent Democrat, so take it with a few grains of salt.