Assembly Democratic Minority Leader departs effective September 30th in response to dissatisfaction from fellow Democrats.

MADISON - Peter Barca (D – Kenosha) has decided to step down as Assembly Democratic Minority Leader effective September 30th.

Barca announced his decision after a closed-door meeting Thursday with Assembly Democrats. He has been their leader since 2011, when Republicans took control of the Assembly and current Governor Scott Walker began his first term. The Democrats hold just 35 of the 99 seats in the Assembly, their lowest level since 1957.

Democratic Rep. Christine Sinicki, of Milwaukee, told Wisconsin Public Radio that Barca was forced out in a "coup" led by younger lawmakers unhappy with his leadership.

In addition to these loses, many Democrats disagreed with Barca's recent vote to support the Governor's $3 billion deal to entice Foxconn into the state at the expense of public education and road funding. No successor has been announced.

Barca released the following statement Thursday evening regarding his decision to step down.

“This afternoon I made the very difficult decision to step down as leader of the Assembly Democrats following deliberate, thoughtful discussions. I am grateful to my colleagues for their support over the last seven years.

"It has been my honor to work as their leader in the fight for family-supporting jobs and an economy that works for everyone. Assembly Democrats have always fought to do what is right for Wisconsin families and workers.

"I will continue this effort but will be able to put much more focus on my district, which will have more challenges than ever in the months ahead.

"We ended our discussion this afternoon with a very constructive strategy session, and we are very focused on the work we must do to improve Gov. Walker’s short-sighted budget. We are well prepared for the work ahead.”