| Karen Cecile DeSanto (nee Rylander), born on July 3, 1964, in Sacramento, California, is a Democratic member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing District 40 since January 6, 2025. She resides in Baraboo, Wisconsin, and has one child.
DeSanto graduated from Luther Burbank High School in Sacramento. She pursued a unique path by attending Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College in 1993, leading to a career in entertainment. She performed as a professional circus clown alongside her then-husband, Greg DeSanto, in a husband-and-wife act. Her performances included appearances at Carnegie Hall, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and participation in the Clown Care hospital clowning program of the Big Apple Circus. Additionally, she contributed to arts education programs and co-authored the children's book Star Saves the Circus.
After retiring from performing, DeSanto transitioned into nonprofit leadership. She served as the CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of West Central Wisconsin, expanding the organization to serve four counties. Her leadership in youth development earned her endorsements from figures like former Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes and Secretary of State Sarah Godlewski.
In the 2024 elections, DeSanto won the Democratic primary for Wisconsin's 40th Assembly District and subsequently defeated Republican Jerry Helmer in the general election with 54.1% of the vote. Her legislative priorities include expanding access to healthcare and mental health services, investing in public education, protecting reproductive rights, supporting small businesses, and environmental conservation. |