Racine Sun

John Leiber has what he feels is a novel approach when it comes to doing the state treasurer job he’s now seeking.

“As a fiscal conservative, I will focus on the job duties of the state treasurer,” Leiber said in a news release. “In a 2018 statewide referendum, Wisconsin voters chose to keep the treasurer’s office and it should be administered by someone dedicated to this office and to public service."

A native of Racine and graduate of Prairie High School, Leiber recently launched his GOP run in the Aug. 9 partisan primary, where the only other announced candidate is Orlando Owens of Milwaukee.

A lawyer by trade, Leiber said he plans to bring many of the same characteristics to his life in public service.

“I work hard to help my law clients navigate difficult financial situations and decisions. I’ll use that experience to help all Wisconsinites, and make sure that Wisconsin’s investments continue to grow,” he added.

Among other duties, the Wisconsin State Treasurer is responsible for signing certain checks and financial instruments as well as playing a role in promoting the state’s unclaimed property program. The office has one employee, with the treasurer paid an annual salary of $71,551. Along with the Wisconsin State Attorney General and the Wisconsin Secretary of State, the Treasurer also serves on the Board of Commissioners of Public Lands.

Incumbent State Treasurer Sarah Godlewski recently announced she will not be seeking reelection, instead launching a run in the Democratic Party primary for the U.S. Senate seat held by Ron Johnson.

Leiber resides in Cottage Grove with his wife, Diane, and the couple has three adult children.