Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez is the first Democrat to officially enter the race for governor. She launched her candidacy Friday, the day after Gov.

She is the first to enter what's expected to be a crowded primary to replace retiring Gov. Tony Evers, who opted against running for a third term.

Wisconsin Democratic Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, a former emergency room nurse, announced Friday that she is running for governor, the day after the incumbent decided against seeking a third term. Rodriguez is the first Democrat to officially enter the 2026 race.

Wisconsin's governor was well positioned to win a third term. Instead, he cleared the way for a new generation of Democrats to run. Others should take note.

Evers, a Democrat, said he is stepping back from politics to spend more time with his family.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers announced Thursday that he won't seek a third term, setting off a scramble to replace the two-term Democrat in the battleground state’s first open race for governor in 16 years.