Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers Will Not Seek Re-election in 2026
Introduction
After serving two terms as Wisconsin's governor, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers announced that he will not be seeking re-election in 2026. This decision has set off a wide open race to replace him in the closely divided battleground state.
Key Details
Evers' decision not to run for a third term comes as a surprise to many, as he has been a popular governor among Democrats and Republicans alike. However, the upcoming race to replace him is sure to be highly contested, with both parties vying for control of the state.
During his term, Evers has focused on issues such as education, healthcare, and the economy. He has also been a vocal advocate for gun control and has taken steps to protect the environment, earning him support from a wide range of voters.
Impact
Evers' decision not to run for re-election will have a significant impact on Wisconsin's political landscape. With a closely divided state, the upcoming race will be crucial for both parties as they seek to gain control of the governorship. This also opens up opportunities for new candidates to enter the race and potentially shake up the political scene in Wisconsin.
As Evers' term comes to an end, it will be interesting to see who will step up to fill his shoes and continue the work he has started in the state.
About the People Mentioned
Tony Evers
Tony Evers is the 46th governor of Wisconsin, serving since January 2019 and re-elected in 2022 for a second term[1][3]. Born and raised in Plymouth, Wisconsin, Evers is a lifelong Wisconsinite and a proud alumnus of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he earned bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in educational administration[2][3]. He began his career as a public-school science teacher in Baraboo in 1976, later serving as a principal in Oakfield and Tomah, superintendent in Oakfield and Verona, and administrator in Oshkosh[2][5]. Evers’ deep roots in education led him to the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, where he served as deputy state superintendent for eight years before being elected state superintendent in 2009, a position he held for a decade after winning re-election in 2013 and 2017[1][3][5]. Evers’ gubernatorial campaigns have emphasized improving public education, infrastructure, and access to healthcare and broadband, reflecting his belief that “what’s best for our kids is what’s best for our state”[1][3]. As governor, he has championed historic investments in K-12 and higher education, signed one of the largest tax cuts in state history, expanded access to affordable healthcare and child care, and worked to improve roads and rural broadband access[1][3][6]. His administration has also focused on mental health, clean water initiatives, and support for farmers and small businesses[1][3]. Evers is married to Kathy, his high school sweetheart and a fellow educator; they have three adult children and nine grandchildren[3][4]. Known for his collaborative approach, Evers often highlights the importance of bringing people together to address Wisconsin’s challenges[4][6]. In July 2025, Evers announced he would not seek a third term as governor, marking a significant moment in his political career[8]. Throughout his tenure, Evers has remained a prominent advocate for public education and pragmatic governance, maintaining relevance as a key Democratic leader in a politically divided state[1][3][8]. His focus on bipartisan solutions and middle-class priorities has shaped his legacy as a governor dedicated to the well-being of Wisconsin’s families and communities[1][6].
About the Organizations Mentioned
Democratic Party
## Overview of the Democratic Party The Democratic Party is the oldest continuing political party in the United States, with its roots tracing back to 1792 as the Democratic-Republican Party. Founded by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, it initially advocated for a decentralized government and states' rights, opposing a strong central authority[1][2]. Over time, the party evolved, becoming more progressive and supportive of federal government intervention in social and economic affairs. ## History The modern Democratic Party was formally established in 1828, with Andrew Jackson's presidential campaign marking a significant turning point. Jackson's successful campaign expanded voting rights to all white men, regardless of land ownership, and further reduced federal power[3][6]. The party became deeply divided during the Civil War era, with Northern Democrats supporting limited slavery expansion and Southern Democrats advocating for its perpetuation[3][5]. Post-Civil War, the party became a stronghold for Southern whites who opposed Reconstruction[3]. ## Key Achievements The Democratic Party has played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. history: - **Civil Rights**: The party supported key civil rights legislation, including the Voting Rights Act and the Civil Rights Act of 1964. - **Social Programs**: Democrats have been instrumental in establishing and expanding social programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. - **Economic Policies**: The party has often championed progressive economic policies, including labor rights and environmental protection. ## Current Status Today, the Democratic Party is a major force in U.S. politics, advocating for a strong federal government role in addressing social and economic issues. It emphasizes progressive policies on healthcare, climate change, and economic inequality[6]. ## Notable Aspects - **Symbolism**: The party's symbol, the donkey, originated from Andrew Jackson's opponents calling him a "jackass," which his supporters adopted as a mascot[6]. - **Diversity**: The party has become increasingly diverse, representing a wide range of socio-economic and
Republican Party
The **Republican Party**, also known as the **GOP (Grand Old Party)**, is one of the two major political parties in the United States, founded in 1854 primarily by anti-slavery activists opposing the Kansas-Nebraska Act and the expansion of slavery into U.S. territories[1][5]. It was formed from a coalition of former Whigs, Democrats, and Free Soil party members who shared opposition to slavery and a desire for a national political force promoting economic development and social order[2][5]. The party's early base included northern Protestants, businessmen, factory workers, professionals, and prosperous farmers. It strongly supported pro-business policies like the national banking system, the gold standard, railroads, and high tariffs[1][3]. Abraham Lincoln, the first Republican president elected in 1860, led the party through the Civil War, championing the abolition of slavery and the preservation of the Union. This solidified the GOP’s dominance in national politics for decades, especially in the North, while it remained weak in the South[1][5][6]. Historically, the Republican Party was instrumental in major social reforms, including the Emancipation Proclamation and the passage of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, which abolished slavery, guaranteed equal protection, and secured voting rights for African Americans, respectively[6]. The party also supported women's suffrage early on, backing the 19th Amendment[6]. In the 20th century, Republicans were associated with both conservative economic policies—favoring reduced taxes, limited government regulation, and individual economic freedom—and a strong national defense[7]. The party experienced ideological splits, notably in 1912 when Theodore Roosevelt led a progressive faction away from the conservative wing[1][5]. Today, the GOP continues to promote conservative social policies and states’ rights, opposing extensive federal intervention and advocating free-market principles[7]. For readers interested in business and technology,
