Pocan Wins Dem. Primary for 2nd Congressional District Seat

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State Rep. Mark Pocan defeated a crowded field of fellow Democrats Tuesday in the primary for the 2nd Congressional District seat.

It was good night for Mark Pocan, on what was also his 48th birthday. The longtime state representative from Madison soundly defeated three Democratic challengers to win his party’s primary. Pocan said, “I am extremely honored tonight to be the Democratic nominee for the 2nd Congressional District. I am really proud that we ran a positive campaign based on our progressive values and on accomplishing real results.”

Pocan defeated entrepreneur Dennis Hall, attorney Matt Silverman, and his fellow state representative Kelda Helen Roys in the race to replace Tammy Baldwin, who left the seat to run for the U.S. Senate.

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The race became a little heated between Roys and Pocan, with some Democrats accusing Roys of going negative. She said Tuesday night after her defeat that the party is united. “You know politics ain’t bean bags, and you fight hard and you fight to win. Obviously, you know, as I said tonight, I think Mark Pocan is going to be a great representative in Congress. I want to help him get there, and I fully support him.”

Both Roys and Pocan say their focus now is on getting Tammy Baldwin elected to the Senate.

Pocan will face a challenger in November general election, Republican Chad Lee, who lost to Tammy Baldwin in 2010. The 2nd Congressional District includes Madison and surrounding areas which are Democratic strongholds.