Democrat Governor’s Replacement Revealed
Madison, WI — In a move that’s already stirring the 2026 political pot, Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez (D) announced her campaign to succeed outgoing Democrat Gov. Tony Evers—setting up what could be one of the most high-stakes gubernatorial races in the nation.
Rodriguez Pushes Big-Government Agenda in Campaign Launch
Rodriguez wasted no time unveiling her progressive priorities. In her launch video, she pushed for a dramatic expansion of taxpayer-funded Medicaid, bigger budgets for public schools, and higher pay for teachers—proposals that critics say will balloon government spending and deepen state dependency.
Rodriguez stated that having a Democrat in the governor’s office would allow for the expansion of Medicaid and increased support for the state’s health care workforce.
She also touted support for strengthening labor unions, farming subsidies, and small businesses—policies that echo the broader Biden-era push for central planning over free-market growth.
Far-Left Candidates Line Up Behind Rodriguez
Rodriguez is the first major Democrat to enter the race, but she won’t be alone. Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley has announced steps toward a run, and former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes—known for his far-left positions on law enforcement and climate mandates—is reportedly considering jumping in as well.
Conservatives Mobilizing Early—GOP Candidates Already in the Ring
On the Republican side, businessman Bill Berrien and Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann have already declared their candidacies. Both bring executive experience and a focus on restoring fiscal responsibility, cutting government waste, and defending parental rights in education.
Top Wisconsin Republicans, including State Senate President Mary Felzkowski and Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.), are also rumored to be weighing a run, which could energize the conservative base and bring national attention—and donations—to the Badger State.
Wisconsin: Ground Zero in the Battle for Common Sense
With Gov. Evers stepping down, the race for governor is officially wide open—and Wisconsin is once again in the national spotlight. President Trump won the state by less than a point in 2024, and political insiders say this could be a golden opportunity for Republicans to reclaim power and put an end to the state’s liberal spending spree.
According to the Cook Political Report, the race is a “toss-up,” making it one of the most closely watched contests of 2026. For conservatives, flipping the governorship could mean stronger borders, election integrity reforms, and a rollback of top-down health mandates and education policies.
Bottom Line:
With the Democratic field embracing big government and the GOP rallying behind economic freedom and local control, Wisconsin voters may face a stark choice next year. One thing’s for certain: this race could determine the future of the Midwest—and beyond.
