This story first appeared in Up North News
Wisconsin’s Political Landscape: Kelda Roys Aims for Governor’s Office
As Governor Tony Evers prepares to step down at the end of his term, Wisconsin State Senator Kelda Roys is campaigning to take up the mantle. Roys is positioning herself as a candidate committed to reducing family costs and countering former President Donald Trump’s policies.
In a conversation with UpNorthNews, Roys emphasized the need for proactive leadership in key swing states like Wisconsin. “In this critical moment of great danger for our country and our democracy, we must have strong governors leading important swing states like Wisconsin that are willing to stand up to this Republican regime to protect Wisconsin families,” she stated.
Roys, representing Wisconsin’s 26th District, has launched her campaign with a focus on appealing to voters who may be disillusioned by previous promises unmet by the Trump administration. The Democratic primary for the gubernatorial race is set for August 11, 2026, where Roys faces a competitive field.
The Background of Senator Kelda Roys
Raised in rural Taylor County by a social worker mother and a father in law enforcement, Roys is now a mother herself. Her family includes three young children, two adult stepdaughters, and her husband Dan, whom she describes as “a very patient man.” A lawyer and small-business owner, Roys has also led NARAL Pro-Choice Wisconsin, now Reproductive Freedom for All, advocating for women’s reproductive rights.
Seizing a Moment of Change in Wisconsin
With a history of legislative maps favoring Republican control, Roys sees a unique opportunity for change. She believes in the potential for a Democratic majority in the state Senate and a closely contested Assembly. “We can get a lot done if we have strong leadership from the governor’s office,” she said.
Challenging Economic Policies
Roys criticizes Trump’s economic policies, highlighting the disconnect between his promises and actions. She condemns the enrichment of billionaires at the expense of the public, noting, “He keeps saying that he doesn’t want to hear about affordability. Really?” Roys argues that affordability remains a top concern for Americans.
Addressing Health Care Concerns
Roys is focused on health care costs, which have risen with the expiration of the Affordable Care Act subsidies. She shares the story of a man named Bill from Ladysmith, who faces losing his health insurance due to unaffordable premium increases. Roys proposes opening the state health insurance plan to all Wisconsinites, offering a public option that doesn’t burden taxpayers.
Reforming Education and Immigration Policies
Roys aims to bring an end to school voucher programs, criticizing them for diverting funds from public schools. She also supports the abolition of ICE in Wisconsin, describing its operations as incompatible with a free society. Roys is a proponent of the No Secret Police Act, aiming to enhance transparency and accountability in law enforcement.
Ensuring Affordable Child Care and Vaccine Access
Roys plans to ensure affordable child care, proposing that families spend no more than 7% of their income on it. She also stresses the importance of maintaining access to vaccinations, emphasizing collaborative efforts with other Democratic leaders to lower prescription drug costs.
Regulating the Use of AI in Military Applications
Roys has co-sponsored the NAW DAWG Act, which prohibits the use of autonomous weapons against civilians. She expresses concern over the potential misuse of AI technologies, citing the need for human oversight in their deployment. “This Republican regime has used AI with weapons to attack Iran,” she pointed out, emphasizing the need for strict regulations.
