Madison, WI – Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers announced on Thursday, July 24, 2025, that he will not seek a third term in office, setting the stage for the state's first wide-open gubernatorial election in 16 years. The 73-year-old Democrat cited a desire to spend more time with his family as the primary reason for his decision.
In a video posted to social media, Governor Evers stated, "For five decades, my family has sacrificed to give me the gift of service. They’re my world, and I owe it to them to focus on doing all the things we enjoy and love doing together. It’s why, Wisconsin, I’m announcing that I will not be running for a third term." He also expressed confidence that he would have won re-election had he chosen to run.
Evers' decision transforms the 2026 gubernatorial contest into a highly competitive race in the closely divided battleground state. Wisconsin has consistently seen razor-thin margins in statewide elections, and this announcement is expected to trigger a robust primary for both Democratic and Republican hopefuls. Attorney General Josh Kaul is among the Democrats widely anticipated to consider a run.
Throughout his two terms, Governor Evers has frequently clashed with the Republican-controlled Legislature, notably utilizing his veto power more than any previous Wisconsin governor. He vetoed hundreds of bills, including measures restricting voting access and those related to abortion. His administration also oversaw the redrawing of legislative maps, which are now considered more favorable to Democrats.
Evers, who previously served as the state's Superintendent of Public Instruction, was first elected governor in 2018, defeating incumbent Republican Scott Walker. His re-election in 2022 further solidified his political standing in a state often seen as a bellwether for national political trends. Only one Wisconsin governor, Republican Tommy Thompson, has served a third four-year term since 1970.