SHAWANO, WI- State Representative Elijah Behnke will be entering the race for the District 6 State Assembly Seat as he made his announcement this week, as he will face State Representative Peter Schmidt in the upcoming Republican Primary.

Behnke’s candidacy announcement was marked by a campaign kickoff event at the Shawano County Republican Party Headquarters.

Sharing insights into his background, Behnke recounted his upbringing on his parents’ farm, his educational journey, and his entrepreneurial pursuits, including his cleaning business and legislative role. He highlighted the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which temporarily disrupted his livelihood, underscoring his resilience in the face of adversity.

The Shawano County GOP swiftly endorsed Behnke’s candidacy, citing his track record as a true conservative and his unwavering commitment to conservative principles. County GOP Chairman Richard Kucksdorf praised Behnke’s stance on key legislative issues and criticized Schmidt’s voting record on contentious bills.

With the primary election scheduled for August 13, both Behnke and Schmidt are gearing up for a rigorous campaign season, committed to engaging voters and advocating for their respective visions for the district’s future. As the race unfolds, both candidates remain focused on articulating their platforms and engaging with constituents to earn their trust and support.