Steve Kagen, left, and John Gard
Democrat: Steve Kagen (Incumbent)
Republican: John Gard (Business owner; Speaker, State Assembly)
Republican John Gard is a familiar foe for incumbent Democrat Steven Kagen, who narrowly bested the businessman and speaker of the State Assembly in the 2006 election by taking 51% of the vote. Gard is back in 2008, posing another tough challenge for the freshman Democrat in the Republican-leaning, northeastern district that includes two of the state's largest cities: Green Bay and Appleton. The candidates have already clashed over high gas prices, tax increases and health care reform – issues that will only grow more important in the run up to November.
2004 Presidential Vote: 50% Kerry, 49% Bush
-James Downie and Marti Covington/Washington