Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk announced her intention Monday to step down from her post this April, putting the position up for grabs for the spring election.
""As I looked at what I set out to do, what we have done and where I can best serve, the answer was clear,"" Falk said in a statement. ""As I approach the seventh decade of my life, it is time for me to find that next chapter of how I can make a contribution.""
Falk cleared rumors that the decision to leave was because of scandal or political gain.
""Let me remove any mystery about my stepping down by giving you the facts,"" Falk said in a statement. ""I am healthy, happily married and, of course, I am replaceable. I am not angling for another political job and there is no alterior motive.""
Falk, who has served as the county executive since 1997, received support and praise from Democrats around the state, including Gov. Jim Doyle, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin and local legislators.
""Kathleen Falk has been a great Dane County Executive, and her leadership has been an incredible asset to our community,"" Doyle said in a statement. ""Kathleen will leave big shoes to fill as Dane County Executive, and I wish her the best of luck in all her future endeavors.""
Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz also complimented Falk's work as County Executive and expounded on how much he enjoyed working with her.
""There is no question that Kathleen and I have had the best working relationship of any mayor and county executive in the history of the County Executive's Office,"" Cieslewicz said in a statement.
Although Cieslewicz is up for re-election this spring and has not said whether he will run for re-election yet, he will not consider seeking Falk's position, according to his spokesperson Rachel Strauch-Nelson.
Andrew Welhouse, spokesperson for the Republican Party of Wisconsin, said although he had not heard of anyone expressing interest in running for the position, it could be a great opportunity in a season where newcomers are dominating the political scene.
