Karen DeSanto

Karen DeSanto is a Democratic politician and educator currently serving as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing the 40th Assembly District. She began her legislative career in January 2025 after winning a competitive election in 2024. Prior to her political service, DeSanto had a diverse background as a professional entertainer, educator, and executive director of a nonprofit organization. Her unique experiences have shaped her approach to public service and community engagement.

Early life and career

Karen DeSanto was born Karen Rylander on July 3, 1964, in Sacramento, California. She grew up in a family of four children, raised by her parents, Roy and Marguerite Rylander. DeSanto completed her education in Sacramento, graduating from Luther Burbank High School. Following her high school education, she embarked on a career as a professional clown, specializing in entertainment for children's birthday parties. This early experience in performance laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in the entertainment industry.

In the early 1990s, DeSanto attended a clown camp in Wisconsin, which inspired her to pursue further training in clowning. She subsequently applied to and was accepted into Ringling Clown College, graduating in 1993. After her graduation, she joined Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, performing with their Blue unit. DeSanto became involved in the Clown Care program of the Big Apple Circus, which focuses on providing joy and laughter to children in hospitals. Her expertise in clowning led her to become a prominent instructor, developing educational programs for various circus-related organizations, including the National Circus Project and Ocean Park Amusements.

Throughout her career as a performer, DeSanto has showcased her talents on prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall and the State Capitol of California. She has also participated in high-profile events such as the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. In addition to her performance work, she has contributed to the field of children's literature, authoring articles for publications like Rosie magazine and writing a children's book titled "Star Saves the Circus." Alongside her husband, Greg DeSanto, she has worked as a consultant for Feld Entertainment and directed clown material for multiple editions of Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. The couple served as resident clowns at Circus World Museum in Baraboo, Wisconsin, for seven seasons and appeared together in the Big Apple Circus' production "Grandma Goes To Hollywood."

In 2011, DeSanto transitioned from performance to nonprofit leadership, becoming the CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of West Central Wisconsin. During her tenure, she successfully expanded the organization, doubling the number of facilities in her region from two to four. Her leadership and contributions to the community were recognized with several awards, including the Women in Industry award from InBusiness Madison in 2018, and she was named CEO of the Year multiple times by various organizations, including the National Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

Legislative service

DeSanto entered the political arena with her candidacy for the Wisconsin State Assembly in the 40th Assembly District during the 2024 election cycle. This election came on the heels of significant legislative redistricting in Wisconsin, which resulted from a ruling by the state Supreme Court that invalidated a long-standing Republican gerrymander. The redistricting altered the political landscape of the state, including the area of Sauk County where DeSanto resides. The newly drawn 40th district encompassed parts of northwest Columbia County and eastern and southern Sauk County, and notably, there was no incumbent representative in this district.

In her pursuit of the Democratic Party nomination, DeSanto faced two other candidates: realtor Brad Cook and engineer Kyle Kunicki, the son of a former Assembly speaker. DeSanto secured the primary nomination with a significant margin, receiving a majority of the votes cast. In the general election, she competed against Jerry Helmer, the chairman of the Sauk County Republican Party. DeSanto's campaign focused on local issues and community needs, ultimately leading to her election to the Assembly.

Upon taking office in January 2025, DeSanto became part of a legislative body tasked with addressing a range of issues affecting Wisconsin residents. Her previous experience in nonprofit leadership and community engagement is expected to inform her approach to governance and policymaking.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly representing the 40th District, DeSanto's policy focus is likely influenced by her background in education, nonprofit management, and community service. While specific legislative priorities have not been detailed, her experience as the CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs suggests a commitment to youth development, education, and community welfare. DeSanto's work in the nonprofit sector has equipped her with insights into the challenges faced by families and children in her district, which may guide her legislative initiatives.

The 40th Assembly District, encompassing parts of Sauk County and Columbia County, presents a diverse demographic and a mix of urban and rural communities. DeSanto's engagement with local constituents and her understanding of the district's unique needs will be crucial as she navigates the legislative process. Her previous experience in the entertainment industry may also provide her with a unique perspective on cultural and recreational issues relevant to her constituents.

In summary, Karen DeSanto's journey from a professional clown and educator to a state legislator reflects a diverse and multifaceted career. Her commitment to community service, combined with her leadership experience in the nonprofit sector, positions her to address the needs of her constituents effectively. As she continues her legislative service, her background and experiences will likely play a significant role in shaping her approach to policy and governance in Wisconsin.