State Rep. Andrew Hysell Endorses Judge Ben Jones for Dane County Circuit Court, Branch 1

MADISON—Today, Wisconsin State Rep. Andrew Hysell endorsed Judge Ben Jones for election to a full term in Dane County Circuit Court, Branch 1. 

Rep. Hysell (AD-46) joins fellow Representatives Maureen McCarville (AD-45), Francesca Hong (AD-76), Shelia Stubbs (AD-78), Lisa Subeck (AD-79), and Mike Bare (AD-80). Supreme Court Justice Susan Crawford, who Judge Jones replaced on the Dane County Circuit Court, and Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett, have also thrown their support behind Jones for a full term on Branch 1. 

“Judge Ben Jones brings a level-headed, community-focused approach to the bench that Dane County can count on,” said Rep. Andrew Hysell. “He listens, he learns, and he leads with a deep respect for the law. Judge Jones has shown he can balance accountability with compassion, and he’s committed to keeping our neighborhoods safe while ensuring everyone is treated fairly. That’s the kind of judge we need on the bench.”

“I’m honored to have Rep. Andrew Hysell’s support,” said Judge Ben Jones. “Andrew is an advocate for opportunity, fairness, and a stronger Dane County, and I’m grateful for his partnership. His dedication to building a safer, more equitable community reflects the values we share. I look forward to continuing this work together as I serve the people of Dane County.”

A longtime champion for the rights of kids and inclusion in education, Judge Jones was appointed to the bench by Governor Tony Evers earlier this year, following a comprehensive merit-driven selection process. Prior to being appointed to the bench, Judge Jones built an impressive record as an attorney in private practice, and then was chief legal counsel at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI), the state’s education agency. 

Jones distinguished himself at DPI as the leader developing legal frameworks for providing education during the COVID crisis. He was also the architect of a legal strategy to protect children’s rights, especially as the Trump Administration has tried to undermine protections secured through generations of advocacy – especially for LGBTQ+ kids.

Judge Jones lives in Monona with his wife and two sons, and is a proud graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Madison and UW Law School.

The general election will be April 7, 2026, with a primary election to be held February 17 if there are three or more candidates.

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