Jason Johns is the founder and president of Wisconsin Legislative Strategies with over 12 years of experience in all avenues of Wisconsin politics.

Prior to forming WLS, Jason served as Deputy Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, having been appointed to the post by Governor Scott Walker in his first term.  His position within the Walker cabinet coupled with his positions as a field campaign operative, a state legislative aide in the Capitol and as a lobbyist in the private sector has given him the valuable experience and insight needed to successfully advocate for our clients within the Wisconsin State Government. In addition, his personal relationships within the Walker administration, state legislature, and key staff make him a valuable asset to all our clients.

Jason served in the Wisconsin Army National Guard and the United States Army Reserves from 1994-2002. In early 2003 the WI Army National Guard unit that he had served with the longest was mobilized for service in the Iraq War. He voluntarily left his civilian life and re-enlisted to join them during their combat tour with the 4th Infantry Division. During his tour in Iraq, Jason received the Purple Heart for wounds received due to enemy action. He was able to recover in country and complete his combat tour.

Jason is married to Carin and resides outside of Oregon, WI with his twin daughters Abby & Ellie and their son William.

 

EDUCATION

  • Hamline University School of Law, Juris Doctorate-May 2001
  • University of Northern Iowa, B.A.- History and Political Science- May 1998

 

ADMISSIONS

  • State Bar of New York
  • U.S. District Court for Eastern District of Wisconsin
  • U.S. District Court for Western District of Wisconsin
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims
  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Accredited Attorney

 

VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES & MEMBERSHIPS

  • National Judge Advocate, Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A.
  • Past National Deputy Legislative Director- Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A. (2013-14)
  • Member- National Security & Foreign Affairs Committee, Veterans of Foreign Wars USA
  • Veterans for Smart Power National Leadership Coalition-U.S. Global Leadership Coalition
  • Member- Board of Directors, International Law Students Association
  • State Legislative Officer, Military Order of the Purple Heart Dept. of WI
  • State Legislative Committee Chair, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Dept. of WI
  • Member- Board of Directors, Veterans Trek
  • Member- Fundraising & Marketing Committee, Fisher House of WI
  • Past Commander-Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10272 (2006-2010)
  • Senior Associate- Wounded Warriors In Action Foundation
  • Peer Mentor-Wounded Warrior Project
  • President- Oregon Area Chamber of Commerce (2007-09)
  • Member- Advisory Council, University of Wisconsin Veterans Legal Clinic
  • Senior Judge- Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition

 

MEMBERSHIPS

  • Association of Wisconsin Lobbyists
  • National Organization of Veterans Advocates (NOVA)
  • Military Order of the Purple Heart-Life Member
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars- Life Member
  • American Legion- Life Member
  • Disabled American Veterans- Life Member
  • Wounded Warriors In Action Foundation
  • Wounded Warrior Project- Alumni
  • Warrior Pointe