Democratic Gov. Tony Evers of Wisconsin will not seek a third term in 2026, creating the first open race for governor in the battleground state in 16 years.

The decision is likely to invite a wide-open race for the Democratic nomination in a battleground state the party hopes to control.

Democrat Tony Evers will not seek a third term as governor of Wisconsin, he announced Thursday. His decision sets up yet another competitive gubernatorial race for 2026, with Democrats also seeking to defend seats in swing states including Michigan and Pennsylvania.