Missy Hughes launched her Democratic gubernatorial bid in Wisconsin on September 29, 2025, focusing on economic growth and affordability.

Missy Hughes, former Wisconsin economic development director and attorney, announced her Democratic gubernatorial campaign on September 29, 2025, positioning herself as a non-politician focused on economic growth, higher wages, affordable child care and health care, improved schools, and accessible housing. She previously led the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation under Gov. Tony Evers, stepping down on September 19, and spent 17 years at the dairy cooperative Organic Valley. Her entry adds to a competitive Democratic primary field that includes Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, state Sen. Kelda Roys, and others. On the Republican side, U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany and Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann have also announced runs. Gov. Evers is not seeking a third term and has not endorsed a candidate. The primary is less than 11 months away.