Mandela Barnes enters the competition for Wisconsin governor

Dec. 2 (UPI) -- Mandela Barnes, the former Lieutenant Governor of Wisconsin, declared on Tuesday that he will compete for the governor's office, joining a growing list of candidates. Governor Tony Evers, a Democrat, is set to step down when his term ends next year.

The Democratic field includes several notable figures: Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, state Representative Francesca Hong, state Senator Kelda Roys, and attorney Missy Hughes. Barnes, 39, previously ran for the U.S. Senate in 2022 but was defeated by Republican Senator Ron Johnson, which could impact his chances.

In his campaign launch video, Barnes emphasized economic challenges facing working families. He stated, "It seems like the harder you work, the more Washington ignores the struggles of ordinary people: tax cuts for the wealthy, rising costs for everyone else." He criticized the Trump era for promoting "distraction and chaos to avoid accountability" and outlined his vision for Wisconsin.

"The path forward for our state is rejecting the Washington approach and focusing on solutions that work for Wisconsinites," Barnes said. "This campaign isnt about left or right, or who can shout the loudest its about ensuring people can afford to live in the state they call home. A place where healthcare is accessible, where children can gain skills without leaving home, and where a days work earns fair pay."

An October poll by Marquette University showed the Democratic primary was highly undecided, with 81% of voters not yet committed. Barnes was not included in that poll as he had not officially entered the race. On the Republican side, Representative Tom Tiffany and Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann are running in the primary.

Barnes previously made history as Wisconsins first Black lieutenant governor, serving from 2019 to 2023 under Evers. He also served two terms in the state Assembly representing Milwaukee. Since his Senate race defeat, he has remained politically active through his political action committee.

Author: Sophia Brooks