Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton stated: “My personal policy regarding primary endorsements has been strict: I simply haven't done them. Today I find cause to make a singular exception for a dear friend of many years. Fred Wade's ideals for good government and deep understanding of what is essential to protect a thriving democracy, his commitment to the highest level of public service and proven capacity for strong leadership make him the strongest candidate to represent the 77th Assembly District and I recommend him without reservation to the voters there.”

“Fred's tenure working with the Securities and Exchange Commission will be invaluable to the Wisconsin State Assembly's work in the financial arena. His academic and practical experience with government – teaching it, serving on the State Senate staff, developing municipal budgets-- and his broad expertise honed in 30 years of law practice will inform his work as an elected official. He understands the complexity of challenges inherent in public policy and the critical role government must play in creating a strong economic framework in which businesses thrive and jobs are created. He won't back away from the responsibility to develop strategies for long-term sustainability in our state, especially as they relate to the environment and to public education pre-K through 16 and clean government. He has fought to protect the state's investment in its talent pool and understands the deep public value of state employees to all of us.”

“I broke my own rule and offer my endorsement for Fred Wade for the 77th Assembly District because his integrity is unimpeachable: he is a good man to the core, an independent thinker sure to influence and bring out the best in his legislative colleagues. I wish I were going to be around to serve with him.”