Wisconsin is facing a pivotal election season in 2026, marked by uncertainty in political power dynamics. For the first time in years, the future control of the state government is genuinely unpredictable. Democratic Governor Tony Evers has announced his retirement, creating an open seat for the governor’s office for the first time since 2010. This development has sparked interest from multiple candidates across both major parties.
Gubernatorial Race Overview
The race to fill the governor’s position is highly competitive. Eight Democrats are vying for their party’s nomination, including:
- Mandela Barnes – former Lieutenant Governor and U.S. Senate candidate.
- Sara Rodriguez – current Lieutenant Governor.
- David Crowley – Milwaukee County Executive.
- Francesca Hong – State Representative from Madison.
- Kelda Roys – State Senator and previous gubernatorial candidate.
- Missy Hughes – former head of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp.
- Brett Hulsey – former State Representative.
- Zachary Roper – Political science student at Carthage College.
On the Republican side, U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany and Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann are competing, with Tiffany considered the front-runner. Experts suggest that both primary contests remain fluid, especially with a late August primary approaching.
State Legislative Control
Control of the Wisconsin Legislature is also in question. Democrats aim to flip the Senate, currently held by Republicans with an 18-15 majority. They need to win two seats in battleground districts identified by analysts. In contrast, the Assembly poses a steeper challenge, requiring Democrats to flip five seats from the existing 54-45 Republican majority.
Key Legislative Districts
Prominent battlegrounds include:
- 17th Senate District – Currently represented by Republican Howard Marklein.
- 51st Assembly District – Currently represented by Republican Todd Novak.
National political sentiments will influence the elections. Professor Barry Burden indicates that Democrats may have a slight edge due to historic midterm advantages for the non-controlling party in the White House.
Notable Upcoming Elections
In addition to the gubernatorial and legislative races, crucial statewide elections are scheduled:
- Attorney General: Incumbent Josh Kaul will run against Republican Eric Toney, with Kaul having narrowly won in 2022.
- Wisconsin Supreme Court: The bench will see a lesser-contested race for a seat vacated by Justice Rebecca Bradley, involving Chris Taylor and Maria Lazar.
Election Dates
Important election dates to note include:
- Spring Primary: February 17
- Spring General Election: April 7
- Partisan Primary: August 11
- General Election: November 3
This election season in Wisconsin presents a significant opportunity for both parties to re-evaluate their positions. The outcomes could reshape the state’s political landscape for years to come, leaving many questions about which party will ultimately control Wisconsin’s government in 2026.
