News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Justin Sargent
220-2342
sargentforassembly@sbcglobal.net
www.sargentforassembly.org

Madison, Wisconsin (July 21, 2008)

Today Justin Sargent thanked the more than 81 Women of the 81st Assembly District who have endorsed him and are hosting a get to know the candidate event for him.

“I want to thank the more than 81 women from this district who have come forward to help on my campaign, lending their voices and support to my efforts to promote positive change has been a tremendous boost,” said Sargent, “I understand that women’s issues are varied and complex. I will always listen to the concerns of both the women and men that I am elected to represent. Together we can make a positive change for Wisconsin.”

Senator Judy Robson and the 81 Women in the 81st District have issued an open invitation to join them for a reception and listening session for Justin Sargent at the Westmont Law Offices located at 1837 Aberg Ave., Madison on July 23rd from 5 to 7 pm. For more details contact Melissa at 608.220.2273.

Who are the more than 81 Women in the 81st District:

Melissa Sargent • Helen Marks Dicks • Mary Schumacher • April Manning • Pat Woicek • Louise Lund • Margy Walker • Shirley Storkson • Julie Storkson • Betsy Tuttle • Beverly Tormey • Wanda Farris • Rita Cairns • Mary Joyce • Jennifer Johnson • Gail Gaustad • Chris Rode • Mary Jo Rimkus • Stephanie Dean • Rebecca Patterson • Kay Nelson • Christina Tralmer • Meg Bowden • Alex Schwebach • Marilyn Paffini • Jeni Hanser • Susan Fadness • Elizabeth Long • Lynnea Nielsen • Jeanette Paulson • Gayle Ihlenfeld • Dorothy Wheeler • Connie Smalley • Dayna Dalton • Carol Goedkin • Jeanine Johanning • Ivonne Hernandez • Jennifer Marquardt • Michele Johnson • MJ Reich • Barbara Baumgartner • Pricilla Herman • Laurie Wells • Julie Olsen • Mary Ambrosavage • Terri Holtzem • Tracy Drill • Lindsay Freye • Lydia Maurer • Kristin Mathews • Donna Miller • Delores Eul • Bonnie Becker • Dolly O’Loughlen • Tess Meuer • Diane Walder • Liz Braith • Pat Brinkman • Mary Ann Marsden • Diane Ebner • Heidi Wilhelm • Nicki Paulson • Mollie Derwinski • Karen Herrera • Anette Eisman • Susan Hoffman • Forest Espinoza • Cindy Marecek • Rebecca Marecek • Michaela Marecek • Mary Gayle Langer • Lori Kief • Ann Addis • Jane McGowin • Patti Castillo • Susan Schlichting • Kathy McCosky • Shirley Swenson • Marlene Gest • Barbara Arnold • Phillis Young • Danielle Lawrence • Mary Hagglund • Helen LeRoy • Marianne Morton • Jean Wilder

* Please note that this list is growing and unfortunately we were not able to place all of the names on this list. An updated list will be maintained at www.sargentforassembly.org

What a few of the 81 have to say about Justin Sargent:

"Our public schools are suffering - this affects children and families. Justin Sargent is committed to solving the budget crisis that our schools are facing." – Lydia Maurer

"The work that Justin Sargent has done for the last 15 years as well as his guarantee of better health coverage for all in Wisconsin is why he has my vote." – Mary Schumacher

"Justin Sargent believes unequivocally in a fair Wisconsin. He will ensure that all couples have basic, common sense rights." – Gayle Ihlenfeld

Justin Sargent is running to replace retiring Representative David Travis, in the 81st District that includes portions of Madison’s North and East sides, Waunakee, Westport, Cross Plains, Black Earth, and Mazomanie. He and his wife, Melissa, live on the north side of Madison with their three sons. To learn more about Justin Sargent go to: www.sargentforassembly.org.

Authorized and paid for by Justin Sargent for Assembly, Dayna Dalton Treasurer

John Nichols, The Capital Times, 7/17/2008 3:38 pm

The Painters union does not have so large a membership as some other labor groups, but it has established a reputation in recent years as one of the savviest and most effective unions in the country when it comes to playing the political game.

Thus, the endorsement of Painters & Allied Trades District 7 -- the regional affiliate of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades -- was much coveted by candidates in the hottest local legislative contest: the Democratic primary to fill the 81st Assembly District seat being vacated by veteran state Rep. Dave Travis.

The endorsement was made Thursday morning and it went to Justin Sargent, the former legislative aide who has worked especially hard this year to attract labor support in a multi-candidate contest where contenders are looking for every advantage. Sargent already had the endorsement of United Auto Workers Local 95 Janesville-Madison, as well as financial support from the United Transportation Union.

Now, he's got the Painters, a union that has developed its political operations to such an extent that its endorsement is now among the most coveted -- along with those of the Fire Fighters, the American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees and the Service Employees International Union -- in national and state races.

"In a crowded primary, Justin Sargent stands out," said John Jorgensen, business manager/secretary treasurer, Painters & Allied Trades District Council 7, in a release. "He is passionate about promoting educational and economic opportunity in Wisconsin, His experience in both small business and in the legislature gives him the tools to hit the ground running. Sargent is running for all the right reasons and would best reflect the values and concerns of the people of the 81st Assembly District."

The District 7 council has 2,400 members in the region. And its endorsement comes with a prospect of financial and volunteer support, so you can bet that the candidate is sincere when he says, "I deeply appreciate the support and endorsement from the hard working men and women of Painters and Allied Trades District 7. They understand the importance this primary has in providing an effective strong voice for my friends and neighbors in the 81st Assembly District. As I walk door-to-door, I hear their concerns about education funding, the healthcare crisis, and frustration with partisan gridlock echoed by voters from Madison to Mazomanie. I'm committed to tackling these tough issues."

The other candidates in the Democratic primary contest are Waunakee Village President John Laubmeier, Madison restaurant owner Peng Her, former lobbyist Eric Englund, Dane County Assistant District Attorney Tim Kiefer and former NARAL Pro-Choice Wisconsin Executive Director Kelda Helen Roys.

The 81st district includes much of the northeast side of the city, along with Waunakee, Black Earth, Cross Plains, Mazomanie and the towns of Westport, Springfield and Berry.

View the original story HERE.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Justin Sargent
220-2342
sargentforassembly@sbcglobal.net
www.sargentforassembly.org

Madison, Wisconsin (July 17, 2008)

Today Justin Sargent received the endorsement of the Painters & Allied Trades District 7 Union.

In their endorsement, they joined other unions and labor leaders in citing Sargent’s integrity, experience, and ability to get things done in the legislature as reasons for their support. Business Manager/Secretary Treasurer John Jorgensen also mentioned Sargent’s interest in promoting educational and economic opportunities for Wisconsin residence.

Accepting this endorsement, Justin said, “I deeply appreciate the support and endorsement from the hard working men and women of Painters and Allied Trades District 7. They understand the importance this primary has in providing an effective strong voice for my friends and neighbors in the 81st Assembly District.” Sargent added. “As I walk door-to-door, I hear their concerns about education funding, the healthcare crisis, and frustration with partisan gridlock echoed by voters from Madison to Mazomanie. I’m committed to tackling these tough issues.”

Justin Sargent is a Democrat running to replace retiring Representative David Travis, in the 81st District that includes portions of Madison’s North and East sides, Waunakee, Cross Plains, Black Earth, and Mazomanie, the Towns of Burke, Westport, Berry, and Springfield. He and his wife, Melissa, live on the north side of Madison with their three sons. For more information on Justin Sargent go to: www.sargentforassembly.org

Authorized and paid for by Justin Sargent for Assembly, Dayna Dalton Treasurer

7/17/2008

Contact: Jeff Mehrhoff
Governmental Affairs Director
Painters & Allied Trades District Council 7
608-834-1690

The men and women of Painters & Allied Trades District 7 announce their endorsement of Justin Sargent, Democratic candidate running to replace Representative Dave Travis, who is retiring.

“Based on his integrity, legislative experience, and advocacy for Wisconsin’s working families, Justin Sargent is the clear choice to replace Dave Travis, and he will be an effective representative who gets things done,” said Jeff Mehrhoff, Governmental Affairs Director, Painters & Allied Trades District Council 7

“In a crowded primary, Justin Sargent stands out. He is passionate about promoting educational and economic opportunity in Wisconsin, His experience in both small business and in the legislature gives him the tools to hit the ground running. Sargent is running for all the right reasons and would best reflect the values and concerns of the people of the 81st Assembly District,” said John Jorgensen, Business Manager/Secretary Treasurer, Painters & Allied Trades District Council 7

The International Painters and Allied Trades District Council No. 7 represent approximately 2,400 members. We help ensure that our members working conditions are safe and that our members get good pay and benefits, like health care coverage and pensions. We represent workers by bargaining collectively with employers, as well as helping workers handle difficult work situations.

See the press release at WISPOLITICS.COM

From: The Capital Times — 7/16/2008 5:33 am

What are your top three issues, in order of priority?

Address the crisis in health care affordability and accessibility.

Fix the state education funding formula.

Promote good jobs, small business and an vibrant economy.

What separates you from the rest of the field?

From my public service in the Legislature, I have gained the practical, hands-on policy and legislative experience with more than just one issue and can hit the ground running in what will be a defining legislative session for our state. I have the passion to successfully find solutions to the challenges our communities and state are facing. I am hard working, an exceptional listener, and conduct myself with integrity.

What most frustrated you about the Legislature in the last session?

The unwillingness of the Assembly to work on issues important to Wisconsin. My neighbors here in the 81st don't want more political rhetoric, they want results and their concerns addressed by leaders who are willing to take on the challenges facing our state.

Endorsements:

Local Leaders: Dane County Sheriff Dave Mahoney, Former Mayor Paul Soglin, Former School Board member Carol Cartstensen, School Board member Marg Passman, County Supervisor Dorothy Wheeler, Madison city Ald. Michael Schumacher, conservationists Jayne and George Meyer, Environmentalists Tia Nelson, Scott Froehlke, and Denny Caneff.

State Elected officials: State Sens. Judy Robson and Kathleen Vinehout, state Reps. Mike Sheridan, Chuck Benedict, Kim Hixson. We will be rolling out more elected officials endorsements, but have not made them public yet.

Labor Organizations: UAW Local 95 Janesville-Madison has endorsed and donated. The United Transportation Union has donated.

Biographical information:

Age: 39

Political Experience:

I have volunteered on numerous local, state, and national campaigns. I have worked in public policy for more than 10 years, most recently serving as Sen. Robson's chief of staff.

I have spoken on ethics at the National conference of State Legislatures and worked with the Senate to improve Senate decorum and civility.

Occupation:

I have taken an unpaid leave of absence from Senator Robson's office. I am her chief of staff. I also am a certified SCUBA instructor and used to manage the Fontana SCUBA Shop.

Family:

I am married to Melissa Sargent, formerly Melissa Agard. Melissa is a small business owner. We have sons Devin, 10, Bailey, 8, and Keanan, 2. Melissa and I both grew up in Madison. We have chosen to raise our family on the north side, where our children attend public school. We have two rescued dogs from the dog rescue that we are members of.

Read the original story HERE.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Justin Sargent
220-2342
sargentforassembly@sbcglobal.net
www.sargentforassembly.org

Madison, Wisconsin (July 16, 2008)

Justin Sargent, Democratic candidate for the 81st Assembly seat, commends last week's press conference hosted by Wisconsin Women’s Network announcing the Elder Economic Security Standard Index. The Index is a realistic, geographically based measure of the income that notes what older Americans need to make ends meet. The figures released by the Wisconsin Women’s Network are Wisconsin specific and included county-by-county figures. Justin notes that the Index is a powerful tool that will help service providers, advocates and policy makers better assess the affects of elder policy.

“I am glad that Wisconsin now has such quality research to work from,” said Justin Sargent. “Although the findings are deeply concerning we previously did not have the cold hard facts to work from. We now have the facts as well as the tools available to us better serve our seniors, thanks to The Elder Economic Security Standard Index.”

Justin Sargent is looking forward to working with Wisconsin Woman’s Network and other senior advocates using the index and other resources to evaluate the challenges seniors face as well as assessing the most effective ways to spend program dollars to impact them more positively.

Liz Braith said, “Justin understands how important a good quality of life is for seniors. Justin Sargent is my choice for Assembly, he has my vote.”

“Justin Sargent is the only candidate in the 81st who has the experience and knowledge to advocate successfully for seniors. His work on SeniorCare with Senator Robson stands alone,” stated Susan Fadness.

“My home is a big part of my independence. I deserve to stay in it and I know Justin Sargent will help to make that happen as he fights for fair taxes for all seniors” added Charles Ambrosavage.

Justin Sargent is running to replace retiring Representative David Travis, in the 81st District that includes portions of Madison’s North and East sides, Waunakee, Westport, Cross Plains, Black Earth, and Mazomanie. He and his wife, Melissa, live on the north side of Madison with their three sons.

More information on the Elder Economic Security Standard Index can be found at http://www.wowonline.org/ourprograms/eesi/state-resources/wisconsin.asp

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Justin Sargent
220-2342
sargentforassembly@sbcglobal.net
www.sargentforassembly.org

Madison, Wisconsin (July 9, 2008)

Leaders from around the State endorsed Justin Sargent for State Assembly this week. Senator Judy Robson, Representative Michael Sheridan, Representative Kim
Hixson, Senator Kathleen Vinehout, and Representative Chuck Benedict lend their names and support to Justin Sargent for Assembly.

Former Senate Majority Leader Judy Robson feels that "SeniorCare is the most significant benefit that the State of Wisconsin has provided for senior citizens in Wisconsin in recent memory. I know that Justin Sargent shares my belief that SeniorCare must be funded in our budget - this priority should never be shorted because of politics."

Representative Michael Sheridan says "Wisconsin's economy is struggling and I know that Justin Sargent will make people and their families his top priority when decisions are made about our economic future. I look forward to working with him side by side for the hard working families of Wisconsin."

Representative Kim Hixson states, "As we look for a better economic tomorrow for Wisconsin, making sure education is a top priority for the state is essential. Our children and young adults need to have access to the tools they need to compete and succeed in securing good jobs. Wisconsin has always valued education and we understand what it means for our state and our people, Justin Sargent knows that a strong education provides a lifetime of opportunity and security. Justin is the right choice for Wisconsin."

Senator Kathleen Vinehout says "Wisconsin's family farms and rural communities deserve an advocate in the Assembly, someone who understands the value of what farms mean to Wisconsin. Justin Sargent is that person. He loves the outdoors, respects the balance of our farmed areas, and values the agricultural community for what it is – the backbone of Wisconsin."

Representative Chuck Benedict states "I look forward to working with Justin Sargent on health care reform in the Assembly. He has a deep understanding of the issues and knows how important real reform is for the working families and businesses of Wisconsin. We can't sit back and let things continue as they are - our only responsible decision is change to make health care more affordable and just simply better for Wisconsin."

Accepting the endorsements, Justin said, “I’m honored to have the support of these distinguished leaders from across the State of Wisconsin. As your Assembly
Representative I will work hard to give each of my neighbors in the 81st Assembly district a voice in the state capitol."

Justin Sargent is running to replace retiring Representative David Travis, in the 81st District that includes portions of Madison’s North and East sides, Waunakee, Westport, Cross Plains, Black Earth, and Mazomanie. He and his wife, Melissa, live on the north side of Madison with their three sons.

Authorized and paid for by Justin Sargent for Assembly, Dayna Dalton Treasurer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Justin Sargent
220-2342
sargentforassembly@sbcglobal.net
www.sargentforassembly.org

Madison, Wisconsin (July 7, 2008)

Justin Sargent candidate for the 81st Assembly seat turned in today just 400 of the over 1000 nomination signatures to the Wisconsin Government Accountability Board in support of his campaign. Only 200 signatures are required to be placed on the ballot for the Assembly.

Sargent's signatures were collected from all over the district including Mazomanie, Madison, Waunakee, and Black Earth. Collected when Sargent knocked on doors and attended local events, this campaign year rite of passage separates the movers and shakers in a race from those less willing to hit the pavement to ask for support.

In addition, to circulating nomination papers himself, Sargent had a network of volunteers that circulated papers in their own neighborhoods.

"My campaign has always been about grass roots involvement. We have worked together to create this network and are committed to a strong community campaign for the Assembly. I am honored to have this support and I am very thankful to my supporters for their commitment," Sargent said.

Justin Sargent is running to replace retiring Representative David Travis, in the 81st District that includes portions of Madison’s North and East sides, Waunakee, Westport, Cross Plains, Black Earth, and Mazomanie. He and his wife, Melissa, live on the north side of Madison with their three sons.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Justin Sargent
220-2342
sargentforassembly@sbcglobal.net
www.sargentforassembly.org

Madison, Wisconsin (July 1, 2008)

Democratic State Assembly Candidate Justin Sargent signed a clean campaign pledge today and challenged his primary opponents to join him in making this election about the issues.

“I believe that we have an obligation to set a positive tone during our primary. We have the opportunity to lead by example; to elevate our debate to focus on the issues and challenges important to the people of our communities."

"People are turned off by negativity associated with campaigning, I want to change that by running a strong campaign on the issues,” said Sargent.

The pledge was inspired by a chapter of the League of Women Voters that posted a clean campaign pledge online as part of their Clean Campaign Project. The pledge includes rejecting attacks from outside groups, pledging to use accurate representations, avoiding personal attacks, and taking responsibility for campaign messages.

Sargent added, “My experience working with Senator Robson to restore decorum and civility to the Senate taught me that we can vigorously disagree on issues, while avoiding the pitfalls of partisan and personal attack. This allows us to move Wisconsin forward. I think that our friends, neighbors, and fellow Wisconsinites expect us to talk about issues, issues that include affordable healthcare, educational opportunities, and creating a strong and prosperous economy."

Sargent’s campaign mailed copies of the pledge to his primary opponents with a letter asking that they join him. Copies of the signed pledge will be sent to Mr. Peter Rickman, the Democratic Party 2nd Congressional Chair.

Justin Sargent served as Senator Robson’s Chief of Staff and is now running full time to replace retiring Representative Dave Travis. Justin grew up in Madison and, with his wife Melissa, has chosen to raise their three children on Madison’s Northside. More information about Justin is available at his website:
www.sargentforassembly.org.

The 81st District includes portions of Madison’s North and East sides; the Villages of Waunakee, Cross Plains, Black Earth, and Mazomanie; and the Townships of Burke, Westport, Springfield, Berry, and Black Earth.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Justin Sargent
220-2342
sargentforassembly@sbcglobal.net
www.sargentforassembly.org

Madison, Wisconsin (June 23, 2008)

Dane County Sheriff Dave Mahoney and Rock County Sheriff Bob Spoden announced their endorsement of Justin Sargent for State Assembly this week.

“I’m supporting Justin Sargent as the best candidate to represent the people of the 81st Assembly District. He understands that making our neighborhoods and communities safe is a top priority. He knows that we need to continue to explore safe and reasonable alternatives to incarceration that will help lower our taxes, increase safety in our jails, and help non-violent lawbreakers pay off their debt to society,” stated Sheriff Mahoney.

Sheriff Spoden said, “I worked with Justin Sargent while he served as Senator Judy Robson’s Chief of Staff. He is a person of integrity, who will bring valuable public safety experience and leadership to the State Assembly. He understands that education and economy play a role in keeping communities safe. He is well grounded and balanced while still passionate about tackling the challenges facing Wisconsin.”

Accepting the endorsements, Justin said, “We deserve safe streets, secure homes, and freedom from fear. I’m honored to have the support of Sheriff Mahoney and Sheriff Spoden, both of whom are working toward those goals. They have undertaken efforts to safely reduce the dangerous population levels in our jails in ways that increase safety and accountability while lowering our taxes. I admire the professionalism and dedication of these top law enforcement officers and I look forward to working with them to increase our safety.”

Sheriffs Mahoney and Spoden join former school board member and education advocate Carol Carstensen, School Board member Marjorie Passman, former Madison Mayor and progressive commentator, Paul Soglin, Madison Alder Michael Schumacher, and Dane County Board Supervisor Dorothy Wheeler in support of Justin Sargent to replace retiring Representative Dave Travis.

Justin Sargent is running to replace Representative David Travis in the 81st District that includes portions of Madison’s North and East sides, Waunakee, Westport, Cross Plains, Black Earth, and Mazomanie. He and his wife, Melissa, live on the north side of Madison where their school-aged children attend public schools.