Fred Risser

Fred Risser is a retired American politician and attorney who served as a member of the Wisconsin State Legislature for an extensive period, making him one of the longest-tenured state legislators in U.S. history. A member of the Democratic Party, Risser represented Wisconsin's 26th State Senate district, which encompasses much of Madison, including the campus of the University of Wisconsin–Madison. His legislative career spanned from 1957 to 2021, during which he held various leadership positions and was involved in significant legislative initiatives.

Early life and career

Fred Risser was born on May 5, 1927, in Madison, Wisconsin, into a family with a strong political legacy. His father, Fred E. Risser, and his grandfather, Ernest Warner, both served as legislators in Wisconsin, representing parts of Dane County. Risser's great-grandfather, Clement Warner, also held a legislative position, indicating a familial tradition of public service, albeit none of them were affiliated with the Democratic Party. Risser's father notably served in the Wisconsin State Senate for 12 years.

Risser's early life was marked by his service in the United States Navy during World War II. He enlisted shortly before graduating from high school and served as a medic in various locations, including Newport, Rhode Island, and the Panama Canal Zone. Following his military service, Risser utilized the G.I. Bill to pursue higher education. He began his studies at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and later attended Carleton College before transferring to the University of Oregon. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1950 and subsequently obtained a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Oregon School of Law in 1952. After completing his education, Risser became a member of both the State Bar of Wisconsin and the Oregon State Bar, establishing his legal practice in Wisconsin.

Legislative service

Risser's political career began in earnest when he was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly in 1956. He succeeded fellow Democrat Ivan A. Nestingen, who had resigned to become the mayor of Madison. Risser was re-elected in 1958 and 1960, serving a total of six years in the Assembly before transitioning to the Wisconsin State Senate in 1963. His election to the Senate came after he won a special election in 1962, which was necessitated by the appointment of Horace W. Wilkie to the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Once in the Senate, Risser quickly ascended through the ranks, demonstrating a keen understanding of parliamentary procedure. By 1967, he had become the minority leader. His leadership capabilities were further recognized when, after the Democrats regained the majority in the Senate following the 1974 elections, he was elected president pro tempore in 1975. This role evolved when a state constitutional amendment in 1979 separated the offices of Lieutenant Governor and President of the Senate. Following the certification of this amendment, Risser was elected as the president of the Senate, a position he held for 16 consecutive years until the Democrats lost the majority in 1994. He returned to the presidency each time the Democrats regained control over the following two decades. Risser also served as Senate Majority Leader for 25 years, underscoring his influence and leadership within the legislative body.

Risser's legislative career was marked by significant events, including his participation in the 2011 protests in Wisconsin. During this period, he and 13 other Democratic State Senators left the state to deny the Senate a quorum, a strategic move against Governor Scott Walker's proposed "Budget Repair" legislation.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his lengthy tenure, Risser was known for his progressive stance on various issues. He played a pivotal role in advancing legislation that expanded access to contraceptives for unmarried individuals and implemented a ban on smoking in indoor public spaces. His legislative efforts reflected a commitment to social issues and public health, aligning with the broader progressive agenda of the Democratic Party during his time in office.

Risser represented Wisconsin's 26th State Senate district, which includes a significant portion of Madison, a city known for its liberal political climate and active engagement in social issues. His district also encompasses the University of Wisconsin–Madison, which likely influenced his legislative priorities and focus on education and student-related policies.

Risser's electoral success is notable; he never lost an election during his political career, a testament to his strong support within his district and the effectiveness of his legislative work. His retirement was announced on March 26, 2020, when he declared that he would not seek re-election in November 2020. He officially left office in 2021 at the age of 93, concluding a remarkable career that spanned over six decades.

In addition to his legislative roles, Risser was involved in broader political activities, including serving as a delegate to the Democratic National Conventions in 1960 and 1964. He also chaired Wisconsin's presidential electors during the 1964 presidential election, further demonstrating his engagement in the political landscape beyond the state legislature.

Risser's personal life includes a first marriage to Betty, who passed away after 21 years. He is currently married to Nancy Risser, a retired Spanish teacher. Together, they have three children and several grandchildren, contributing to Risser's legacy both in his family and in the political arena. His extensive career and commitment to public service have left a lasting impact on Wisconsin's legislative history.