Bob Wittke

Robert Otto Wittke Jr. is a Republican politician and accountant currently serving as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing the 63rd Assembly district. Born on September 23, 1957, in Racine, Wisconsin, Wittke has a background in education and public service, having previously served on the Racine Unified School Board. His political career has been marked by a commitment to his local community and a focus on educational issues, reflecting his experience in the school system.

Early life and career

Bob Wittke was born in Racine County, Wisconsin, to Robert Wittke Sr. and Margaret Wittke, whose maiden name is Jankowski. He completed his secondary education at William Horlick High School, graduating in 1975. Following high school, Wittke pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting in 1980. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his professional career in accounting and finance.

Wittke began his career as a tax accountant at Modine Manufacturing, a company based in Racine, where he worked from 1980 until 1986. After his tenure at Modine, he took a position at Snap-on Inc. in Kenosha, where he remained until 1994. His experience in these roles provided him with a solid understanding of financial management and tax-related matters. Following his time at Snap-on, Wittke joined Deloitte, a prominent global consulting firm, where he specialized in tax consultancy from 1994 to 2002. This role further enhanced his expertise in accounting and tax issues.

In 2012, Wittke transitioned to a new position at CORPTAX, a tax software as a service company located in Deerfield, Illinois. His work at CORPTAX has continued to build on his extensive background in accounting, allowing him to stay engaged in the evolving landscape of tax technology and services. Wittke resides in Wind Point, Wisconsin, where he is married and has four children. His family life and professional background have contributed to his understanding of the challenges faced by families and businesses in his community.

Legislative service

Wittke's entry into public service began with his candidacy for the Racine Unified School Board in 2013. In this election, he placed fourth in a competitive race for three at-large seats. Despite not winning a position on the board, Wittke's interest in educational governance did not wane. In 2015, a significant change occurred in the structure of the Racine Unified School Board when the Wisconsin Legislature passed a law requiring school board seats to be filled by geographic districts rather than through at-large elections. This legislative change prompted Wittke to run for the newly established ninth district seat in the 2016 school board elections.

Wittke successfully secured a position on the school board in April 2016, defeating his opponent, retiree Kurt Squire. His election marked the beginning of a more active role in local educational governance. A year later, in April 2017, he was elected as the president of the Racine Unified School Board, a role that allowed him to influence educational policy and administration within the district. His leadership on the board was characterized by a focus on improving educational outcomes and addressing the needs of students and families in the district.

In April 2018, Tom Weatherston, the incumbent representative for the 62nd district in the Wisconsin State Assembly, announced that he would not seek re-election for a fourth term. Wittke quickly declared his candidacy for the open seat, recognizing an opportunity to expand his public service beyond the school board. He successfully navigated the Republican primary, defeating John Leiber, and subsequently won the general election against former State Senator John Lehman. This victory marked Wittke's entry into the Wisconsin State Assembly, where he served the 62nd district from 2019 until 2025.

In 2024, Wittke transitioned to represent the newly drawn 63rd Assembly district, continuing his legislative service in the Wisconsin State Assembly. His tenure in the Assembly has been marked by a focus on issues pertinent to his constituents and the broader state of Wisconsin.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, Wittke has concentrated on various policy areas that reflect his background in education and accounting. His experience as a school board president has influenced his legislative priorities, particularly in matters related to education funding, school governance, and educational standards. Wittke's role in the Assembly allows him to advocate for policies that support local schools and enhance educational opportunities for students in his district.

Wittke's district, the 63rd Assembly district, encompasses parts of Racine County, including communities that face unique challenges and opportunities. As a representative, he has the responsibility to address the diverse needs of his constituents, which include families, educators, and local businesses. His understanding of the local landscape, combined with his professional expertise, positions him to engage effectively with the issues that matter most to his district.

In addition to education, Wittke's policy focus may extend to fiscal responsibility and economic development, reflecting his background in accounting and finance. His experience in the private sector provides him with insights into the economic challenges faced by businesses and families in Wisconsin. As a member of the Republican Party, he aligns with the party's broader goals of promoting economic growth, reducing taxes, and enhancing the business climate in the state.

Wittke's legislative service is characterized by a commitment to representing the interests of his constituents while navigating the complexities of state governance. His background in education and accounting informs his approach to policymaking, allowing him to advocate for initiatives that aim to improve the quality of life for residents in his district. As he continues his service in the Wisconsin State Assembly, Wittke remains focused on addressing the needs of his community and contributing to the legislative process in Wisconsin.