Speaker Paul D. Ryan transferred $500,000 from his campaign account to the Wisconsin Republican Party during the second quarter reporting period, which the party intends to use to strengthen its ground game efforts.
The Badger State is home to a competitive Senate race and one of the most competitive House races in the country, as well as being a presidential-level battleground.
Ryan is helping this year's GOP candidates across the country with both powerhouse fundraising and a big presence on the campaign trail. He's hitting 12 states in August, campaigning and fundraising for House incumbents and recruits across the country. The speaker's joint fundraising committee, Team Ryan, brought in just under $33 million during the first six months of 2016.
In Wisconsin, GOP Sen. Ron Johnson is running for re-election against former Democratic Sen. Russ Feingold in a race rated Tilts Democrat by the Rothenberg & Gonzales Political Report/Roll Call. The state's 8th District is a tossup contest to replace retiring GOP Rep. Reid Ribble. Republican Matt Gallagher will face off against Democrat Tom Nelson in November.
Gov. Scott Walker turned over much of his political operation after winning his second term to Johnson. Those volunteer lists and electorate profiles have been an important part of the Republican senator's ground game.
Johnson's campaign expects the cash infusion from Ryan to further bolster their efforts on the ground.
"Wisconsin Republicans have repeatedly fought and won tough elections in recent years," said Team Ryan Executive Director Kevin Seifert. "The strength of this success stems from having a united Republican Party in the Badger State _ where our grassroots volunteers and elected leaders work hand in hand to engage and turn out voters."
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