Mandela Barnes (D), David Crowley (D), Francesca Hong (D), Sara Rodriguez (D), and three other candidates are running in the Democratic primary for governor of Wisconsin on August 11, 2026. As of June 2026, Barnes, Crowley, Hong, and Rodriguez led in endorsements, polls, and fundraising.
Incumbent Tony Evers (D) is not running for re-election. Wisconsin Public Radio's Anya Van Wagtendonk said, "[T]he sizeable field means the candidates will have their work cut out for them as they seek to build name recognition and war chests ahead of the August primary." Wisconsin Watch's Brittany Carloni quoted professor Anthony Chergosky as saying, "there are multiple factors that could play a role in pushing one of the Democrats out in front … [including electability], a compelling biographical story, unique political experience or signature policy issues."
Barnes was elected lieutenant governor on a ticket with Evers in 2018 and ran for U.S. Senate in 2022 rather than seeking re-election. He served in the Wisconsin Assembly from 2013 to 2017. In a campaign ad, Barnes said, "The only way for our state to move forward is to reject the Washington way and get things done the Wisconsin way. It isn't about left or right. It's not about who can yell the loudest. It's about whether people can afford to live in the state they call home."
