MENOMONIE, Wis. – A former CIA officer from Menomonie, Deb McGrath, announced her candidacy for the Democratic nomination to Congress from western Wisconsin. McGrath became the fifth candidate for the seat being vacated by Ron Kind of LaCrosse. In announcing, McGrath called for “rational collaboration” to solve isues that affect national security. She emphasized adequate education, affordable health care, basic infrastructure, economic opportunity, clear voting rights, and respect for human rights. She promised broadband for all Wisconsin. She considers herself an independent thinker. In the CIA, her assignments included Southeast and South Asia, West Africa, the Soviet Union and Central Europe. Two assignments were in combat zones. She was awarded parachutist wings, the overseas ribbon, and the CIA Career Medal.  Earlier she was in the Army, at the rank of captain, and served in the Koran demilitarized zone. She holds the Army Meritorious Service Medal.

McGrath. Daughter of is the late Congressman Al Baldus, who held the Wisconsin Third seat from 1975 to 1981 and also 18 years in the State Assembly. Mother of three. Husband is a retired Army colonel.

Also  running

Democrats

> Business owner Rebecca Cooke, Eau Claire .

> Navy veteran Brett Knudsen, Holmen.

> State Senator Brad Pfaff, of Onalaska.

Republican

> Derrick Van Orden, Hager City.

Verbatim

McGrath: “I’ve served in the Army, State Department and the CIA for 25 years. While abroad, I witnessed how countries could thrive or decline based on government responsiveness. Our country struggles to find solutions to issues that impact our national security. I have experience in solving problems through rational collaboration. I am running for Congress to take on these challenges and keep our nation strong.”