MADISON, WI -- Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Ben Wikler released the following statement following news of the passing of former Assemblyman Fred Kessler:

“Fred Kessler spent his life in service to the state of Wisconsin. From his terms in the state legislature to his time on the bench in our court system and his community work in Milwaukee, Fred never passed up the opportunity to fight for what is right. Fred was an early champion for fair maps, and it was his vision that created the structure of our Senate and Assembly districts as we know them today. The Democratic Party of Wisconsin extends our condolences to Fred’s family, friends, and partners in the fight during this difficult time.”