Missy Hughes, a Democratic candidate in the crowded 2026 Wisconsin gubernatorial primary, announced Monday that she is suspending her campaign and endorsing Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez.
Hughes, former secretary and CEO of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation under Gov. Tony Evers, posted a statement on X.
“Having thought long and hard about the qualities and proven experience I think are important to be Governor, I believe that one person is best positioned to lead the state in this next period,” Hughes wrote. She cited humility, intelligence, experience, compassion, openness, crisis management, teamwork, and servant leadership as key attributes.
Hughes praised Rodriguez’s background. She stated that Rodriguez “led teams and communities and brought them together” in unpredictable environments and expressed confidence that Rodriguez “will do that as Governor, and that she will do it well.”
She encouraged voters to look beyond “talking points, social media posts, and gilded promises” and instead consider “who you trust to make big decisions that impact our families and the wellbeing of our loved ones, neighbors, and communities.”
Hughes thanked her family, including her husband Tripp and son Harry, as well as supporters and her campaign team, for what she called a “remarkable adventure.” She expressed pride in her roles as a mother, community member, her work with Organic Valley farmers, and in state economic development. She stated she will continue seeking ways to serve Wisconsin, “but it won’t be as Governor.”
