President Donald Trump’s endorsement of U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany for Wisconsin governor has ended Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann’s bid for the state’s top office.
Schoemann officially dropped out of the race Wednesday after Trump said Tiffany “has always been at my side” and “will fight to advance common-sense values, and put Wisconsin and America first.”
Schoemann congratulated Tiffany and his supporters for securing Trump’s backing before exiting the race.
“If we focus on the people of Wisconsin rather than fighting with one another, we can make Wisconsin the place to be, not just be from,” Schoemann said.
Tiffany thanked Schoemann, saying they are united in that vision. He said he will ensure that “Wisconsinites can afford to stay here by lowering property taxes, cutting red tape, and delivering honest government and strong schools.”
According to PBS Wisconsin, Tiffany could still face a challenge from 26-year-old Andy Manske, though Tiffany holds a significant fundraising advantage.
While the Republican nomination appears clear-cut, Democrats are still jockeying for position in their primary.
Former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, state Sen. Kelda Roys, state Rep. Francesca Hong, former state economic development director Missy Hughes, and former Evers aide Joel Brennan are among the contenders for the Democratic nomination.
Candidates are touring the state to garner support. Crowley had an event in Door County postponed last weekend due to extreme cold, and Rodriguez will meet with supporters at the Kress Pavilion in Egg Harbor from 1 to 3 p.m. Feb. 15.
