Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez Launches 2026 Governor Bid

Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez has become the first Democrat to officially launch a campaign for governor in 2026, announcing her candidacy just one day after incumbent Gov. Tony Evers said he would not seek a third term. Rodriguez, a former emergency room nurse and health care executive, emphasized her working-class background, commitment to expanding Medicaid, and support for reproductive rights and public education. In her campaign video, she criticized the current Republican administration in the White House, linking its policies to negative impacts on Wisconsin farmers and children. Rodriguez highlighted the opportunity for Democrats to potentially flip the state legislature, enabling long-blocked initiatives such as Medicaid expansion and increased teacher pay. The race is expected to be competitive, with several prominent Democrats and Republicans considering bids. If elected, Rodriguez would make history as Wisconsin’s first female governor.