Wisconsin’s Sarah Godlewski Eyes Lieutenant Governor Role
Wisconsin’s Democratic Secretary of State, Sarah Godlewski, has announced that she will not run for governor in the upcoming election. Instead, she is considering a bid for the position of lieutenant governor next year, according to an adviser. This decision comes on the heels of Governor Tony Evers declaring that he will not seek a third term, opening the field for new candidates in the battleground state.
In recent weeks, speculation had surrounded Godlewski as a potential contender for the governor’s office. However, she clarified her intentions on Monday, indicating that her focus has shifted to the state’s second-highest office. Scott Spector, her adviser, stated, “She is making calls to leaders across the state and will make a final decision on a run in the coming weeks.” Should she decide to enter the race, Spector emphasized that she would garner significant support from elected officials and local Democrats throughout Wisconsin.
Godlewski, 43, was appointed Secretary of State by Evers in March 2023 after her predecessor resigned shortly after taking office. The role in Wisconsin differs from that in many other states, as it does not oversee elections and holds minimal official responsibilities. Prior to her appointment, Godlewski ran for the U.S. Senate in 2022 but did not advance past the Democratic primary.
As the political landscape in Wisconsin evolves, other candidates are emerging. On Friday, Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez announced her candidacy for governor, while Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley is preparing to launch his campaign soon. Other Democrats contemplating a run include Attorney General Josh Kaul, Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, and state Senator Kelda Roys.
The Republican side also sees action, with two announced candidates: Washington County Executive Josh Shoemann and manufacturer Bill Berrien. Additionally, U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany and state Senate President Mary Felzkowski are among those considering a gubernatorial bid. Former Governor Scott Walker, who held office from 2011 until 2019, confirmed via a video message on Sunday that he will not pursue the governorship. Last week, Walker had teased a possible campaign on social media but chose to focus on his role as president of the Young America’s Foundation, which promotes political engagement among college-aged conservatives.
The upcoming election promises to be a competitive race, with both parties positioning themselves for a pivotal contest in Wisconsin. As candidates prepare their strategies, the decisions made in the coming weeks will significantly shape the state’s political future.
