Markesan… Joan Ballweg, candidate for the 14th Senate District, announced today the endorsement of Keith Ripp, former state representative for the 42nd Assembly District and Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Assistant Deputy Secretary under Governor Scott Walker.
“Joan understands the agricultural community and has been a champion for farmers in the 41st Assembly District,” said Ripp. “It was an honor to work alongside her, fighting for rural Wisconsin, in the state assembly. I know she will continue that fight in the state senate.”
Ballweg, who owns and operates a farm equipment business with her husband, has continuously worked to promote ag-positive policies in the state legislature. Over the years, she has fought for the interests of the ag community, most recently spearheading a task force and legislation to support farmer mental health. She is a member of the Rural Wisconsin Initiative and co-sponsor of their broadband expansion proposals. In prior sessions, Ballweg introduced and passed legislation effecting producer security and was an advocate for area farms during the 2017 dairy crisis with Canada.
A lifelong farmer from Lodi, WI, Ripp served the 42nd Assembly District for five years and was appointed to serve as Assistant Deputy Secretary of DATCP in 2017.
Ballweg was first elected to the state assembly in 2004. Before that she served as Mayor of Markesan where she still resides with her husband, Tom. Together, they own and operate a farm equipment business in Waupun and a lawn equipment store in Beaver Dam.
