Samantha Kerkman Sworn in for Fifth Term as          Assembly Representative

Representative Samantha Kerkman (R-Randall) officially took the oath of office on Monday, beginning her fifth term as the 66^th Assembly District’s state representative.  The Assembly consists of ninety-nine members, all of whom were sworn in by State Supreme Court Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson at the Capitol.  Representative Kerkman said she is honored to serve her constituents for the next two years, and will work with her colleagues to help guide Wisconsin through the current economic crisis.

“We’re facing very difficult times right now, including a major budget deficit, that will require everyone in the Legislature to work together and come up with a strong plan to get Wisconsin back on track,” said Representative Kerkman.  “I am looking forward to working with all my colleagues, including Representatives Steinbrink and Barca, in fixing our state budget and helping those who have been affected by the weak economy.”

For the upcoming legislative session, Representative Kerkman said her top priorities include improving the state’s economy through business development and job creation, reducing the cost of healthcare, maintaining the quality of education from kindergarten through college, and improving energy efficiency.  She believes this can all be accomplished without raising taxes.  “Family budgets are strained enough as it is, especially for recently unemployed workers.  State government needs to make sure that it doesn’t make the household financial situation worse by demanding more money from struggling taxpayers,” Representative Kerkman explained.

Representative Kerkman encourages her constituents to contact her with any questions, concerns, and issues they have regarding their state government.  She also welcomes ideas anyone may have for new legislation.  Representative Kerkman can be reached by phone toll free at 888-534-0066, by e-mail at Rep.Kerkman@legis.wisconsin.gov or by postal mail at P.O. Box 8952, Madison, WI 53708. 

 Chad and Samantha Kerkman in the Assembly Chambers on Inauguration Day.