Police Union Backs Gonzales, Labor Supports DeSmidt in Kenosha Area Assembly Race

KENOSHA, Wis. (WRJN)- Candidates vying for Wisconsin’s 65th Assembly District seat are touting endorsements as they compete to represent parts of Kenosha and Pleasant Prairie.

Republican Brian Gonzales, a former Kenosha police officer, has secured the backing of the Wisconsin Fraternal Order of Police. The organization praised Gonzales’ 26-year law enforcement career and commitment to public safety.

Gonzales, who ran unsuccessfully for Kenosha County Sheriff in 2022, says he aims to strengthen public safety laws if elected. He was involved in the controversial 2004 police shooting of Michael Bell Jr.

On the Democratic side, Ben DeSmidt has garnered support from retiring State Rep. Tod Ohnstad, whom he hopes to succeed in the 65th. This week, DeSmidt announced an endorsement from Teamsters Local 344, which represents over 5,000 package delivery and warehouse workers statewide.

DeSmidt has also secured endorsements from former Kenosha mayors Keith Bosman and John Antaramian, as well as former Kenosha County Executive Jim Kreuser.

A local businessman and former educator, DeSmidt owns two Kenosha taverns and previously taught at Carthage College. He currently serves as a trustee for Gateway Technical College.

The 65th District, which includes most of Kenosha and part of Pleasant Prairie, leans heavily Democratic. The Civic Media Legislative Voter Guide rates the district as “Very Likely D” with a projected margin of D+15.

In the August 13 primary, DeSmidt secured the Democratic nomination with 69.5% of the vote, defeating Kyle Flood. Gonzales ran unopposed in the Republican primary.

You can find out more about voting at My.Vote.WI.Gov.