Multiple published reports indicate that former Gov. Tommy Thompson is gauging support for a potential run for the Republican nomination.
Former Gov. Tommy Thompson is quietly gauging support for a potential comeback bid for Wisconsin governor in 2026, according to conservative commentators who say the longtime Republican leader is testing the waters amid frustration with the current direction of state government.
Wisconsin Right Now first reported that the 84-year-old Thompson, who served four terms as governor from 1987 to 2001, is seriously considering entering the Republican primary. Mark Belling, host of “The Mark Belling Podcast,” confirmed the development, stating plainly that Thompson “is indeed seeking support for a run for governor.”
Thompson’s potential candidacy comes as Wisconsin Republicans seek a strong conservative to reclaim the governor’s office from Democrat Tony Evers. During his tenure, Thompson earned a reputation as a pragmatic reformer who cut taxes, promoted welfare reform and championed school choice — policies many conservatives credit with strengthening Wisconsin’s economy and families.
Supporters view a Thompson return as a chance to restore principled, experienced leadership, but critics note that Thompson has publicly flirted with statewide runs multiple times before and decided each time not to run.
Further complicating a Thompson run is the broad support for U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany, who has been the leading candidate for the Republican nomination since his entry into the race last fall. When President Trump endorsed him earlier this year, Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann (the only other major Republican running) dropped out of the race, effectively making Tiffany the presumptive nominee.
