Governor Tony Evers 2026 campaign uncertain after budget talks falter

MADISON, Wis (CIVIC MEDIA) – A breakdown in negotiations over a tax cut and other spending measures in Wisconsin threatens to put the 2026 race for governor on hold.

Democratic incumbent Governor Tony Evers says he won’t announce his decision on seeking a third term in the swing state until after a budget deal is done.

Gov. Evers and Republicans who control the legislature have been meeting in private since April trying to hammer out a deal ahead of the July 1 deadline. Those talks, however, broke down late Wednesday, June 4. Wisconsin is poised to be in the national political spotlight again next year with the race for governor and a fight over control of the Senate.

Gov. Evers issued a statement shortly after budget talks had fallen through, expressing his disappointment in the stoppage of dialogue but asserting his determination to resolve the issue.