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Governor Evers Announces He Will Not Seek Re-Election

July 24, 2025

Gov. Evers Announces He Will Not Seek Third Term

This afternoon, Governor Tony Evers announced through a video message that he will not be seeking re-election for a third term.

Read the full transcript below:

Hey, Wisconsin. Governor Tony Evers here.

You know, I was a scrawny kid with glasses who grew up scraping mold off of cheese. I never dreamed I’d end up governor of Wisconsin. But here I am.

For the last six years, you’ve welcomed me into your churches, businesses, classrooms, farms, hospitals, and communities. I cherish every moment—every tour, visit, high five, question, and selfie. It’s the honor of my life to be able to give back to the state that raised me.

I promised you when I ran for this office that I’d always work to do the right thing, that I’d always give it to you straight, and that I’d always try to be a governor for all of Wisconsin. And I work every day to keep those promises. That’ll never change.

I began my run for governor as a proud Plymouth Progressive, and that’s still who I am today. I’m a science teacher at heart who ended up running for office and winning five straight statewide elections.  

So, would I win if I ran a sixth time? Of course. No question about that. But whether I’d win or not has never been part of my calculus about running again.

Here’s the truth: Wisconsin, the only thing I love more than being your governor is being a husband, a dad, and a grandpa.

I’ve spent 50 years in public service. I’m damn proud I devoted my entire career—and most of my life—to working for you. And from Plymouth to Baraboo, Tomah to Oshkosh, Verona to Madison, and everywhere in between, Kathy and my family supported me all the way.

Marrying Kathy is the greatest accomplishment of my life because it gave me a lifetime with her, three amazing kids, and nine incredible grandkids. For five decades, my family has sacrificed to give me the gift of service. They’re my world. And I owe it to them to focus on doing all the things we enjoy and love doing together.

It’s why, Wisconsin, I’m announcing that I will not be running for a third term.

I’m so humbled to be your governor. This is the best job I’ve ever had. And folks, we are not done yet.

There is, as always, much work to do. And, Wisconsin, I’ll be working just as hard as I have for the last six years to keep doing the right thing and deliver for you.

So, let’s get back to work. Forward, for you and for Wisconsin, always.

Thank you. 

 An online version of this release is available here.

Reactions

"Wisconsin is lucky to have had Tony Evers leading out state. He has always put Wisconsin - and Wisconsin children - first, and we will continue to see those benefits for generations to come. The Governor's commitment to every kid's education, our teachers, and public schools will undoubtedly shape our future for the better and be a cornerstone of his legacy. His steady hand led us through a once-in-a-generation pandemic, and Wisconsin came out the other side with a strong economy, record low unemployment, and a strong sense of community that bonds us all.

"I thank Governor Evers for his years of service and wish him well as he announces his retirement. However, he leaves behind a legacy of decline—under the ‘education governor,’ student achievement has fallen behind Mississippi, Wisconsin faces a structural deficit, and energy costs now rank second highest in the Midwest. Wisconsinites deserve better. It’s time we change course before we end up like Minnesota and Illinois."

“Governor Tony Evers has been a steady hand and a true public servant for Wisconsin. Whether it was fighting for our kids, protecting our rights, fixing the damn roads, or making life more affordable, his leadership has made a real difference in the lives of Wisconsinites."

Assembly Majority Leader Tyler August (R-Walworth)

“Governor Evers announced today he will not seek election to another term, and while I wish him and his family well in retirement, the reality is this: Wisconsin families can’t afford another four years of a progressive tax-and-spend, Madison-knows-best agenda."

"Holy Mackerel! What a career in public service Tony Evers has had and what a positive difference he has made for the people of this State, especially and always our kids. Tony Evers is Wisconsin through-andthrough and his life and career have been built on the values Wisconsinites share: hard work, compassion, service to others, and family."

“I want to thank Tony Evers, not just for his two terms as governor but for his lifetime of service as an educator. I also want to thank him for something that is in short supply during these chaotic times: his abiding normalcy. At a time when chaos and division dominate the headlines, Gov. Evers has shown up every day with the steady hand of a lifelong educator who understands that governing isn’t about who can yell the loudest, it’s about making things work.” 

If you would like to find time to discuss the above matter in more detail, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Michael Best Strategies contact.

Have a great day, 

Wisconsin GR Team

Government Relations Team

Our Team |  michaelbeststrategies.com

One South Pickney Street, Suite 700

Madison, WI 53703

Phone: 608-257-3501

Fax: 608-283-2275