JANESVILLE -- Speaker Paul Ryan has launched his first campaign web video just weeks ahead of the August 9 primary, TODAY'S TMJ4 has learned. The Janesville Republican is being challenged by Delavan businessman Paul Nehlen.
Ryan's 2-minute video highlights his family's roots in Janesville with scenic shots and interviews with people from the 1st Congressional District talking about why "community matters."
Ryan is facing only his second primary opponent since he was first elected to Congress in 1998. At that time, he was the second-youngest member of the House of Representatives In 2012, he was Mitt Romney's running mate and won reelection to his congressional seat with 55% of the vote, while losing on the national ticket.
Ryan was elected the 54th Speaker of the House in October of 2015 - a job he repeatedly said he did not want. But after taking it, the father of three children said the full time demands of the job would not prevent him from his family responsibilities.
Ryan says the video highlights why coming home is important. "Each week, when votes and legislative business are done in Washington, I’m on the first flight home. It really does energize me going home each week to be with family and friends..."
Nehlen has released his own video challenging Ryan on trade, and to a debate or arm wrestling match. No word yet on if Ryan will agree to either.
Nehlan has been running ads for the past couple of months. The latest was released on Saturday.
