Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez Drops Out Amid Finance Scandal; David Crowley Re-enters Race with Evers' Endorsement

Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez abruptly dropped out of the Democratic gubernatorial primary on July 17, 2026, following the discovery of significant inaccuracies in her campaign’s financial reporting. The campaign had fired its manager after revealing that contributions were double-counted, inflating fundraising totals and leaving the campaign with only $200,000 in cash on hand. Rodriguez stated that continuing the race would be an “ongoing distraction” from the primary’s importance, describing herself as “deeply hurt and betrayed” by the mishandling.

Her exit reshaped the race just weeks before the August 11 primary. Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, who had suspended his own bid earlier that month to endorse Rodriguez, announced his return to the contest on July 18. Outgoing Gov. Tony Evers, who previously declined to endorse any candidate, threw his support behind Crowley, citing his experience and ability to build coalitions. Crowley now competes against former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, democratic socialist state Rep. Francesca Hong, and other candidates. The winner will likely face Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany in the general election.