MADISON – Following is the statement of Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Mike Tate on the announcement that Russ Feingold will run for U.S. Senate in 2016.

“I couldn’t be more excited to welcome Russ Feingold to the race for U.S. Senate next year.

“After four years of Ron Johnson’s failure to serve our middle class, Wisconsin voters are ready for a leader who isn’t beholden to wealthy special interests and won’t waste time on petty, partisan, political battles that stand in the way of ensuring economic opportunity for all.

“That’s why there is an incredible sense of optimism and enthusiasm for Russ Feingold entering this race. Russ Feingold is a tried and true champion for all Wisconsinites who will put their interests first and work every day for seniors, veterans, students, and working families – not the millionaires and billionaires who have already gotten everything they wanted and more from bought-and-paid-for Ron Johnson.

"Wisconsin deserves better than Ron Johnson and we are confident that Russ Feingold will defeat him next year.”