60th District Candidate Soper Seeks Smaller Government, Better Business Climate

• Editor's Note: This is one article in a series of profiles on the candidates running for the 60th Assembly District.

Smaller government is one thing on John Soper's mind as he works to campaign for the 60th Assembly District spot.

"The size and scope of the state should be reduced to allow greater freedom and economic prosperity for all citizens," Soper said. "The state of Wisconsin is in the business of doing many things that government has no place doing."

Soper is one of nine candidates vying for the 60th District position, and one of seven Republicans. The primary election for the spot is Tuesday; the top Republican and top Democrat candidate will move on to a general election on May 3. The 60th Assembly District seat has been empty to become transportation secretary for Gov. Scott Walker.

Soper said he also thinks the current structure in the state works against small businesses, and he would like to change that both for business owners and added employees.

"Our high levels of taxation and regulation have made Wisconsin a poor business climate," he said. "I want to unshackle the entrepreneurs of Wisconsin and unleash the potential of Wisconsin businesses to create jobs."

Soper said "the Budget Repair Bill was a good start," in lessening the high tax burden in Wisconsin, and he strongly supports Gov. Scott Walker's plan to lessen the state's  $3.6 million budget deficit without raising taxes.

More important ideals to uphold in the state include "traditional Wisconsin values, such as life, marriage and the right to bear arms," he said.

John Soper
"The most pressing issue over the next two years will be how Wisconsin deals with its massive budget deficit. In the upcoming biennial budget I would diligently go line-by-line in the budget to ensure taxpayer dollars are not being wasted."
Educational/professional background:  Graduated from Homestead High School, graduated with a bachelor of arts from the University of Iowa, graduated with a Juris Doctor degre from Marquette University Law School, currently works as an attorney
Political background: Nothing — political outsider
Family: Married
Age:  27
Address: 648 W. Hillcrest Rd. #201, Saukville

Patch will have more coverage on candidates leading up to the elections. to find out more information about who will be on the ballot, as well as find links to other candidates' profiles.