In a significant shift in the Wisconsin gubernatorial race, Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann has exited the Republican primary, following his failure to secure backing from former President Donald Trump.
This development paves the way for U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany, R-Minocqua, who received Trump’s endorsement earlier this week, to lead the GOP campaign.
“I want to congratulate Congressman Tiffany and his supporters for receiving President Trump’s endorsement,” Schoemann stated on social media. “I wish Tom great success in November.”
Schoemann, who previously remained relatively unknown in statewide politics, had been the first to announce his candidacy for governor in May, amassing over half a million dollars in campaign funds, though a substantial portion originated from his personal loan.
When Tiffany officially joined the race in September, he quickly became the frontrunner, gathering approximately $2.1 million in fundraising. Trump’s endorsement solidified his lead, a crucial factor in GOP primaries.
In response to Schoemann’s withdrawal, Tiffany expressed gratitude in a social media post, stating, “We are united in making Wisconsin the place to be.”
With Schoemann’s exit, Tiffany is expected to shift his focus toward challenging Democrats and appealing to a broader voter base ahead of the general election.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Party of Wisconsin downplayed the event with a succinct response. “Who?” commented spokesperson Emily Stuckey.
A robust Democratic field has already emerged, including candidates such as Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, state Sen. Kelda Roys, state Rep. Francesca Hong, former Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. CEO Missy Hughes, former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, and former Greater Milwaukee Committee President Joel Brennan.
The upcoming 2026 election will determine the successor of Gov. Tony Evers, who announced his decision not to pursue a third term last summer.
