2004 U.S. Senate Republican Primary – Darrow, Michels & Welch
Russ Darrow vs. Tim Michels vs. Bob Welch
In 2004, the race for the seat held by Democrat incumbent U.S. Senator Russ Feingold was so vigorously contested that the WBA Foundation sponsored this debate among the three Republican primary candidates to give voters an early look at three challengers: Tim Michels and Russ Darrow were businessmen from Oconomowoc and Madison, respectively, and Bob Welch was a State Senator from Redgranite. The three debated on August 20, 2004, knowing that only one would win the primary election and go on to face Feingold in the general election.
