Isaia Ben-Ami, a lifelong Madisonian and current Democratic legislative staffer, announced Tuesday that he will run to represent the 76th Assembly District in next year’s election.
The seat is currently held by Francesca Hong, who is running for governor.
Ben-Ami is currently policy director for State Representative Kalan Haywood, the current assistant minority leader. He’s worked in a number of legislative offices as an aide, chief of staff and policy director in both the Assembly and Senate. While a student at UW-Madison, he served as president of the Pi Lambda Phi Wisconsin Omega Chapter. He was named one of Wisconsin’s Most Influential Latino leaders in 2024.
In a campaign announcement video posted to Facebook, Ben-Ami touted his experience as a legislative staffer over the last five years.
“I’ve seen what works and I’ve seen what doesn’t. I’ve seen just how much further we have to go to make a people’s government that works for everyone,” he said.
He also noted his roots in Madison, where he graduated from Madison East and the University of Wisconsin.
“My story is rooted right here,” he said. “I’m the grandchild of immigrants who came to Wisconsin seeking opportunity. My mom was a lifelong public servant, and I have a sibling who is still in our public schools today. Public Service runs in our DNA, and so does hope.”
He is the son of former school board president and mayoral candidates Gloria Reyes.
Madison alder Dina Nina Martinez and former Madison alder Juliana Bennett have also announced campaigns for the seat. The partisan primary will take place in August and the general election is November 3.
This story has been corrected to accurately identify the other candidates in the race.
