With the 2026 gubernatorial race slowly picking up steam, all eyes are on Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers but the Democratic incumbent isn’t ready to make his next move just yet. During a recent public appearance, Evers stopped short of confirming whether he will seek a third term, even as a new Republican challenger has begun actively campaigning across the state.
Evers, who was elected governor in 2018 and re-elected in 2022, told reporters that his current focus remains on Wisconsin’s biennial budget negotiations. “I haven’t made a decision yet,” Evers said during a visit to Appleton. “Once the budget is behind us, we’ll sit down and figure it out.”
While Evers remains non-committal, GOP hopeful Josh Schoemann is wasting no time. The Washington County Executive officially announced his candidacy for governor earlier this month and is already making campaign stops around the state including a recent rally in Appleton, just hours before Evers’ visit.
A Quiet Governor vs. a Vocal Opponent
Schoemann, a Republican leader from southeastern Wisconsin, is aiming to unseat Evers by building a statewide coalition that appeals to voters seeking “stronger leadership and a new direction.”
“I believe Wisconsin deserves a governor who listens, acts, and leads boldly,” Schoemann said at his campaign launch event in West Bend on May 4. “We can’t afford to wait — our state needs fresh energy, real transparency, and accountability.”
His campaign stop in Appleton included calls for fiscal reform, stronger parental rights in education, and measures to combat crime all popular talking points among conservative voters.
Meanwhile, Evers focused his appearance on promoting Wisconsin’s record-high school funding investments and continued infrastructure upgrades. But political analysts are questioning how long the governor can remain quiet about his 2026 plans, especially as the Republican field begins to take shape.
Timing and the Budget: Evers Plays the Waiting Game
Evers’ caution stems largely from the current state budget discussions, which are still underway and politically sensitive. The two-year budget is central to the governor’s agenda and includes funding for public education, workforce development, and public safety.
Our priority right now is to get this budget done right,” Evers said, adding that his office wants to ensure the state’s resources are used wisely before discussing campaign decisions.
While Evers’ approval ratings remain steady among Democratic voters, political strategists warn that delaying a decision for too long could open the door for more Republican challengers or even a Democratic primary contender.
Schoemann’s Early Start and Conservative Backing
Josh Schoemann’s early announcement puts him ahead of the pack among GOP hopefuls, and his support within the party appears to be growing. As County Executive of Washington County — one of Wisconsin’s most conservative areas — he has built a reputation for fiscal discipline and government efficiency.
In his campaign messaging, Schoemann has framed himself as a grassroots candidate ready to “restore common sense” to Madison. His public appearances have emphasized issues like tax relief, crime prevention, and educational reform, appealing to the conservative base that powered former Governor Scott Walker’s campaigns.
If successful, Schoemann would be the first GOP governor since Walker left office in 2019 after being defeated by Evers.
What’s at Stake in the 2026 Race
Wisconsin’s governor holds substantial influence over education funding, health policy, infrastructure, and how federal funds are distributed throughout the state. With national attention often swinging toward Wisconsin in presidential election years, the governor’s race could become a bellwether for national political trends heading into 2028.
Evers has previously clashed with the Republican-controlled legislature on multiple key issues, including public health mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic and school funding policies. His ability to navigate those tensions has helped him build a base of support among moderates and educators — but it’s unclear whether that coalition will hold firm if he chooses to run again.
What’s Next?
With months to go before the 2026 gubernatorial primaries, Wisconsin’s political landscape remains fluid. Schoemann’s early launch may inspire others in the GOP to enter the race, while Democrats will continue to watch for signs of whether Evers intends to defend his seat.
The governor has not given a timeline for his decision, but many expect a formal announcement following the passage of the state budget.
Until then, speculation will continue, and the political chessboard will slowly come into focus.
