Karen Cecile DeSanto , born July 3, 1964, in Sacramento, California, is a Democratic member of the Wisconsin State Assembly representing District 40 since January 2025. A former professional circus clown with Ringling Brothers, educator, and nonprofit leader, she previously served as CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of West Central Wisconsin from 2011 to 2024, where she doubled facilities from 2 to 4, revitalized finances, and expanded to Reedsburg and Portage. Notable achievements include the 2018 Women in Industry award from InBusiness Madison, 2019 Wisconsin CEO of the Year, 2020 Midwest Region CEO of the Year, and 2021 National Boys & Girls Clubs of America CEO of the Year. She won her 2024 Assembly seat with 53% in the primary and 54% in the general election against Republican Jerry Helmer. DeSanto is a member of Wisconsin Women in Government, Electing Women Wisconsin, and the Council on Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse; she voted against the 2025 state budget for insufficient support on affordable housing, broadband, and public schools.

Education and Political Experience

• Early Career and Education: Performed as a professional clown with Ringling Brothers after graduation, traveling on the circus train and riding elephants in acts.
• Nonprofit Leadership: CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of West Central Wisconsin , leading expansion and financial turnaround.
• Political Experience: Elected to Wisconsin State Assembly District 40 in 2024; first term began 2025, focusing on listening and learning legislative processes.