MADISON—Today, former Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle announced his endorsement of Judge Ben Jones for election to a full term in Dane County Circuit Court, Branch 1.
Jim Doyle served as Governor of Wisconsin from 2003 to 2011, following a long career in public service. Prior to becoming governor, he was elected three times as Attorney General of Wisconsin and also served as Dane County District Attorney.
“Dane County is home to diverse communities, and our courts must serve all of them with fairness, independence, and respect for the rule of law,” said former Governor Jim Doyle. “Judge Ben Jones understands that responsibility. He brings sound judgment, experience, and an even-handed temperament to the bench, and he treats everyone who comes before the court with dignity and respect. His commitment to fair and impartial justice reflects the values Dane County expects from its judiciary, and I’m proud to support his continued service.”
“I’m deeply honored to receive the support of Governor Jim Doyle, said Judge Ben Jones. “Governor Doyle’s lifelong commitment to public service and the rule of law has meant so much to Wisconsin, and his confidence is truly meaningful to me. I’m grateful for his support as I continue my work to serve Dane County with fairness, independence, and respect for every person who comes before the court.”
Former Gov. Doyle adds substantial experience and influence to an already impressive list of endorsers for Judge Ben Jones. Other endorsers include Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Susan Crawford, Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett, Wisconsin legislators, local elected officials, Judges, and community leaders from all across Dane County. See the full list of endorsements at https://judgebenjones.com/endorsements.
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.
