Two freshman representatives announced they’re running for reelection.

Rep. Travis Tranel (R–Cuba City) defeated Rep. Phil Garthwaite (D–Dickeyville) in the 49th Assembly District in 2010 after losing to Garthwaite in 2008.

“In 2010 I promised to take common sense, Southwest Wisconsin values to the State Capitol and I have worked closely with citizens throughout the 49th District and with legislative colleagues to deliver on my commitment,” said Tranel. “As I tour the district, I am encouraged by the efforts we are making by listening and working together. I will use my legislative experience in the next legislative session to build on our successes and work hard to solve the new challenges that we face.”

Tranel touts as his accomplishments voting for more than 50 jobs bills that became law, voting for the 2011–13 state budget that was balanced without raising taxes, authoring a “rainy-day fund” constitutional amendment, voting to expand gun rights for “law-abiding citizens,” working to pass the disabled-veterans employment tax credit, and getting tax credits passed for farmers through his role as vice chairman of the Assembly Agriculture Committee.

Tranel will be opposed by Dave Kuhle of the Town of Hazel Green Aug. 14 in a rematch of their 2010 Republican primary race. The winner will face Democrat Carol Beals of Platteville Nov. 6.

Rep. Howard Marklein (R–Spring Green) is running for reelection in the 51st Assembly District after defeating Democrat John Simonson in 2010 in the race to replace the late Rep. Steve Hilgenberg (D–Dodgeville).

Marklein, an accountant, authored legislation that would require the state to balance its budget based on Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, not on a cash basis.

“I believe that the State of Wisconsin should use the same accounting standards that are required of our businesses, local school districts, counties, and municipalities,” he said. “As one of the lead authors of this legislation, I will continue to push for measures that give taxpayers assurance that the state is living within its means, just like we do as families.”

Marklein said jobs “are still a big concern for many of our citizens. We need to keep our eye on the ball and allow our private sector to grow and create the jobs for our residents.”

Marklein will face one of two Democratic opponents, Maureen May-Grimm of Mineral Point and Pat Bomback of Dodgeville, Nov. 6.

The Nov. 6 elections will be based on the boundaries passed by the Legislature following the 2010 Census. The 49th District includes all of Grant County and now includes western Richland County. The 51st has western and central Iowa County, all of Lafayette County except the Town of Benton, and southwestern Green County.