Ben DeSmidt is a Democratic member of the Wisconsin State Assembly representing District 65, which includes much of Kenosha and parts of Pleasant Prairie. He assumed office on January 6, 2025, after winning the November 2024 general election against Republican Brian Gonzales with approximately 53% of the vote, following a primary victory over Kyle Flood with nearly 70%. A lifelong Wisconsinite from Kenosha, DeSmidt is a fourth-generation elected official with a background in academia, small business ownership, and community service; he previously taught at Carthage College from 2005 to 2020 and now co-owns Union Park Tavern. His priorities include education, economic development, supporting local businesses, infrastructure, and school resources; he serves on the Assembly Committees on Colleges and Universities and on Science, Technology, and AI during the 2025-2026 session.

Education and Political Experience

DeSmidt earned a bachelor's degree in Classics from the University of Chicago in 1995 and a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Columbia University in 2006. His political career began with his 2024 election to the Assembly, endorsed by retiring Representative Tod Ohnstad; he is involved in organizations like the NAACP, Democratic Party, MGV Harmonia Kenosha , Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Legislative Caucus, and Sons of the American Legion.