Trump Makes New Endorsement
President Donald Trump stepped decisively into Wisconsin politics on Tuesday, issuing a major endorsement in the state’s highly competitive open race for governor.
Trump announced his support for Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.) in a lengthy Truth Social post, calling the longtime congressman a trusted ally and offering what he described as a “Complete and Total Endorsement.” The move immediately reshapes the Republican primary in one of the nation’s most important battleground states.
In his statement, Trump emphasized Tiffany’s loyalty and record, reminding supporters that he backed the Wisconsin lawmaker early during his first congressional run.
“I endorsed Tom early and strong, and he won big,” Trump wrote. “He has always been at my side.”
The president highlighted Tiffany’s background as a successful businessman, family farmer, and former state legislator, describing him as a proven conservative leader with deep ties to Wisconsin communities. Trump said Tiffany’s experience makes him uniquely prepared to lead the state during a time of economic uncertainty and national change.
According to Trump, Tiffany will prioritize economic growth, public safety, border enforcement, and protection of Second Amendment rights—issues that remain central to Republican voters across the Midwest. Trump added that Tiffany shares his commitment to what he called “common sense values.”
The endorsement instantly positions Tiffany as the leading contender in the August Republican primary. The Cook Political Report currently rates the Wisconsin governor’s race as a toss-up, underscoring how pivotal the contest could be heading into 2026.
The race became wide open after Democratic Gov. Tony Evers announced last year that he would not seek a third term. His decision marked the state’s first open gubernatorial contest in more than a decade and triggered intense interest from both parties.
Democrats now face a crowded and potentially divisive primary. Several prominent figures are seeking the nomination, including former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes and current Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, setting up a competitive race on the left.
Wisconsin’s recent election history highlights just how evenly divided the state remains. While Evers narrowly won reelection in 2022 by roughly three percentage points, Trump flipped Wisconsin in the 2024 presidential election, winning by less than one point.
That razor-thin margin reinforced Wisconsin’s reputation as one of the most closely watched political battlegrounds in America.
Trump also used Tuesday’s announcement to weigh in on a related congressional race, endorsing Michael Alfonso—the son-in-law of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy—in the Republican primary to succeed Tiffany if he advances to the governor’s race.
With Trump now actively shaping both the gubernatorial and congressional contests, Wisconsin is quickly emerging as a central front in the next national political fight.
