Wisconsin Governor Democratic Primary
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Race overview
After Democratic Gov. Tony Evers chose not to seek reelection this year, four candidates are running for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination. They include former Department of Administration Secretary Joel Brennan, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, Madison state Rep. Francesca Hong and Madison state Sen. Kelda Roys. The candidate that wins on Aug. 11 will face the winner of the Republican primary. Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez and former Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. CEO Missy Hughes will still appear on the ballot. Hughes dropped out of the race in June. Rodriguez exited in mid-July due to campaign fundraising problems. Barnes left the race in late July. Crowley suspended his campaign in early July, but re-entered after Rodriguez dropped out. Evers has endorsed Crowley.
Campaign funds raised
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Data reflects monetary and in-kind contributions reported to the Wisconsin Ethics Commission with 2026 transaction dates. Personal loans are excluded. Data was retrieved on Aug. 4, 2026.What does this position do?
Wisconsin’s governor is the state’s top executive. The governor considers all bills approved by the Legislature and has the power to sign, veto, or, in the case of appropriation bills, partially veto proposed legislation that comes to their desk. They can also call the Legislature into special sessions and ask lawmakers to consider specific types of legislation.
The governor appoints heads of executive agencies, such as the Department of Natural Resources, and many state boards and commissions. Most appointees require Senate confirmation.
The governor can also make appointments to vacant judicial seats and county-level offices.
Wisconsin’s governor has the power to pardon or grant clemency for individuals in the state’s criminal justice system.
The governor is the commander in chief of the Wisconsin National Guard and can decide if and when to deploy soldiers.
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