Mandela Barnes Enters Crowded Wisconsin Gubernatorial Race

Former Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes launched his campaign for Wisconsin governor on Tuesday, joining a competitive Democratic primary for the open seat. The 2022 U.S. Senate nominee framed his bid as a push against political “chaos” and a focus on economic affordability.

In his announcement, Barnes, 39, criticized the Trump administration’s legacy and Washington partisanship. “The only way for our state to move forward is to reject the Washington way and get things done the Wisconsin way,” he stated.

“It’s about whether people can afford to live in the state they call home.”

Barnes, who made history as Wisconsin’s first Black lieutenant governor from 2019 to 2023, seeks to succeed two-term Democratic Governor Tony Evers. His narrow loss to Republican Senator Ron Johnson in 2022 elevated his national profile, and he has remained active through a PAC supporting diverse Democratic candidates.

The Democratic field is already substantial, including Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, and state Senator Kelda Roys. Republicans like Congressman Tom Tiffany have also declared candidacies.

The open seat makes Wisconsin a premier 2026 battleground; it is one of five states President Donald Trump carried in 2024 with a Democratic governor now up for election.

Barnes begins a statewide listening tour this week, centering his platform on cost-of-living issues. The race will headline a pivotal Wisconsin ballot featuring contests for lieutenant governor, attorney general, and potential shifts in state legislative control.