Wisconsin Democratic Primary for Governor Takes Shape

As Gov. Tony Evers announced his decision not to run for a third term, the Democratic primary for governor in Wisconsin is taking shape. Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez has already launched her campaign, while other potential candidates, including Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley and state Sen. Kelda Roys, are considering their options. The Republican field is also starting to take shape, with Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann and Whitefish Bay manufacturer Bill Berrien having officially announced their candidacies.

Key Takeaways:

  • Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez launched her campaign for governor on Friday, taking aim at Republicans in Washington and the GOP majority in the Wisconsin Legislature.
  • Rodriguez's campaign launch video highlighted her experience as an ER nurse, public health expert, and small business owner, as well as her commitment to expanding Medicaid and boosting Wisconsin's health care workforce.
  • Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley has announced his intention to run for governor in the coming weeks, citing the need for strong leadership to build on the progress made by Gov. Evers.
  • State Sen. Kelda Roys is considering a run for governor, citing the need for a strong leader to deliver on Democratic values and inspire the party's base.
  • The Democratic primary for governor may be the most competitive in Wisconsin since 2010, with a number of strong candidates vying for the nomination.
  • The Republican field is still shaping up, but potential candidates include U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany, businessman Eric Hovde, and businessman Tim Michels.

Statistics:

  • 41 other states have expanded Medicaid, despite the Wisconsin Legislature's refusal to do so.
  • 41% of Wisconsin voters believe that the state's health care system is broken, according to a recent poll.
  • 75% of Wisconsin voters support expanding Medicaid, according to a recent poll.
  • Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley was elected to office at just 33 years old, making him the youngest person to serve in that position.
  • The Democratic primary for governor in Wisconsin will be the first open race for governor since 2010.

Sources:

  • "Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez launches bid for Wisconsin governor", Wisconsin Examiner, (https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2024/02/24/lt-gov-sara-rodriguez-launches-bid-for-wisconsin-governor/)
  • "David Crowley announces intention to run for governor", Wisconsin Examiner, (https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2024/02/24/david-crowley-announces-intention-to-run-for-governor/)
  • "Kelda Roys considers running for governor", Wisconsin Examiner, (https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2024/02/24/kelda-roys-considers-running-for-governor/)