Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez has dropped out of the Democratic gubernatorial primary, citing financial mismanagement in her campaign. The move comes after her campaign discovered discrepancies in its financial reports, including inflated contributions and outstanding debts. Rodriguez, who had been a frontrunner, announced her decision on Friday, July 17, following the firing of her campaign manager earlier in the week.
The Democratic primary now includes four candidates: Joel Brennan, Francesca Hong, Kelda Roys, and Mandela Barnes. Meanwhile, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, who had previously dropped out and endorsed Rodriguez, is reportedly being urged to re-enter the race by Gov. Tony Evers and Democratic strategists. Crowley is considering the move as the primary election approaches on August 11.
Rodriguez's campaign reported a cash balance of $34,991 and $152,276 in outstanding debts, far below expectations. The financial issues led to calls from other Democrats for her to withdraw, with some labeling the situation as "disqualifying." Rodriguez had been endorsed by Crowley and former candidate Missy Hughes before her campaign's troubles surfaced.
The Republican primary includes Tom Tiffany and Andy Manske. Several candidates from both parties have dropped out or failed to qualify for the ballot, including Republicans Bill Berrien and Josh Schoemann and Democrats Zach Roper, Ryan Strnad, and Brett Hulsey. Independent candidate David King also failed to gather enough signatures to qualify.
The Democratic field had been wide open, with Rodriguez's exit reshaping the race. Barnes, a former lieutenant governor, had been considered a frontrunner, but recent polling and endorsements suggest a competitive primary. Crowley's potential return could further alter the dynamics, especially given his support in Milwaukee County.
The primary election is set for August 11, with early voting already underway. The race is seen as critical in the battleground state of Wisconsin, where control of the governorship could influence policy on issues like reproductive rights, climate change, and economic development.