Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann launched a Republican campaign for governor of Wisconsin. Schoemann announced his bid Saturday at an event venue near his home.
Schoemann enters the race 18 months before voters choose the state's next governor. He becomes the first Republican to officially seek the office.
The 43-year-old is a veteran of the Army National Guard and served in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He graduated from UW-Whitewater and Northern Illinois. He was first elected Washington County executive in 2020 after working as county administrator and manager for six years.
In a campaign video and address, Schoemann stated Wisconsin needs leaders who will "roll up their sleeves, bring people together and do the hard work of building a brighter future for Wisconsin." He argued the state loses young people and retirees to other areas.
He pledged to make Wisconsin the best state to live, work, raise a family, retire, and start a business.
Schoemann criticized the state's current direction, pointing to issues such as lead pipes, lead paint, PFAs contamination, and academic performance in Milwaukee Public Schools. He specifically mentioned that only 9% of students in Milwaukee are proficient in reading.
He also took issue with Governor Tony Evers' veto of a bill concerning the state Department of Public Instruction's measurement of student progress, stating the "status quo is failing us."
Regarding economic matters, Schoemann expressed support for policies championed by former President Trump, stating he gives Trump "a lot of credit" for working to reset the focus on trade and put "America first."
The race is expected to draw other candidates. Potential Republican contenders include U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany and businessman Bill Berrien. Democratic Governor Tony Evers has not announced if he will seek a third term.
