Wisconsin Republican Josh Schoemann becomes first major candidate to run for governor in 2026.

Republican county leader Josh Schoemann has become the first major party candidate to announce his run for Wisconsin governor in 2026. Schoemann, the Washington County executive, plans to formally announce his candidacy at a cookout event. Democratic Governor Tony Evers has not yet decided on a third-term run, with his announcement expected in early July. Other possible Republican candidates include U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany and Bill Berrien.