The 2026 Wisconsin gubernatorial election will take place on November 3, 2026, with party primaries scheduled for August 11, 2026. The race is wide open after Tony Evers, a Democrat, announced in July 2025 that he would not seek a third term.
Wisconsin remains one of the nation’s most closely divided battleground states. Donald Trump narrowly carried the state in 2024, while Democrats have held the governor’s office since 2019. With no incumbent on the ballot, both parties are treating the race as a top national priority.
As of January 10, 2026, the Democratic field is large and competitive, while Republicans have a smaller but more consolidated lineup. Candidates have until June 1, 2026, to officially file.
Democratic Candidates (Declared)
Democrats face a crowded primary, with candidates emphasizing issues such as affordability, health care, education, reproductive rights, and opposition to Trump-era federal policies.
Declared Democratic candidates include:
- Mandela Barnes — Former lieutenant governor (2019–2023) and the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate in 2022. Barnes currently leads in name recognition in early polling.
- Joel Brennan — Former secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Administration under Gov. Evers.
- David Crowley — Milwaukee County executive since 2020, with strong support in southeastern Wisconsin.
- Francesca Hong — State representative from Madison and a member of the Democratic Socialists of America caucus.
- Missy Hughes — Former CEO of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, who resigned to run.
- Brett Hulsey — Former state legislator and a previous gubernatorial candidate in 2014.
- Sara Rodriguez — Wisconsin’s current lieutenant governor, elected in 2022.
- Kelda Roys — State senator who previously ran for governor in 2018.
- Zachary Roper — College student and 2024 Assembly nominee, considered a longshot.
Democrats Who Declined
Several prominent Democrats have opted out of the race, including Attorney General Josh Kaul, Secretary of State Sarah Godlewski (running for lieutenant governor), and Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, who has endorsed Crowley.
Republican Candidates (Declared)
Republicans are running on themes of tax relief, election integrity, public safety, and reducing the size and scope of state government. The GOP field is smaller, with one clear early frontrunner.
Declared Republican candidates include:
- Tom Tiffany — U.S. representative from Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District since 2020. A Trump-aligned conservative, Tiffany launched his campaign in late 2025 and leads early Republican polling.
- Josh Schoemann — Washington County executive and Army National Guard veteran.
- Andy Manske — Medical service technician and lower-profile candidate.
Republicans Who Declined
Several high-profile Republicans have chosen not to run, including 2024 Senate nominee Eric Hovde, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson, former Gov. Scott Walker, and state Senate President Mary Felzkowski. Former 2022 nominee Tim Michels has also been mentioned but has not entered the race.
Why This Race Matters
Wisconsin is expected to be one of the most competitive gubernatorial races in the country in 2026. Democrats are defending a governorship in a state Trump carried in 2024, while Republicans see a prime opportunity to flip control.
Fundraising reports due in early 2026 and the August primaries will help clarify which candidates emerge as finalists. With months still to go before filing deadlines, the field could continue to shift.
Election Desk will continue tracking updates, polling, and key developments as the race unfolds.
Support Independent Journalism
Wisconsin Bay News is part of the Bay News Media Network — a growing group of independent, reader-supported newsrooms covering government accountability, courts, public safety, and institutional failures across the country.
📰 Support independent journalism that isn’t funded by political parties, corporations, or government agencies
📩 Submit tips or documents securely — if you see something wrong, we want to know
Independent reporting only works when readers stay engaged. Your attention, tips, and support help keep these stories alive.
Wisconsin Bay News 
Leave a comment