Here are the likely contenders to run for Wisconsin governor in 2026 now that Tony Evers is not seeking re-election.

(The Center Square) – Wisconsin Democrat Gov. Tony Evers will not be running for re-election in 2026. That leaves Whitefish Bay Resident Bill Berrien and Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann, both Republicans, as the two candidates who have announced they are running for the seat.

Wisconsin’s race for governor is hitting the airwaves more than a year before voting begins. Republican candidate Bill Berrien announced the purchase of about $400,000 in cable TV, radio and online ads Monday.

Gov. Tony Evers will not seek reelection after his second term concludes next year, setting the stage for the first open race for Wisconsin’s executive office in 16 years and a potentially packed Democratic primary next August.

Voting in Wisconsin's governor's race is a year away, but the ads are starting. Republican candidate Bill Berrien announced the purchase of about $400,000 in cable TV, radio and online ads Monday. The buy comes 13 months before the Aug. 11, 2026, primary.

Walker posted the photo with the comment "Interesting...," alluding to the fact that he could seek a non-consecutive term as governor like Trump did as president. Coincidentally, Walker would be the 45th and 47th governor should he run and win in 2026.

Tony Evers' decision not to seek a third term as governor sets up what will almost certainly be a packed midterm election as candidates on both sides of the aisle vie for a seat in Wisconsin's executive office.