Democrat Tony Evers’ decision not to seek a third term sets up something unusual in this political era — a truly “open” race for governor.

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

Gov. Tony Evers (D-WI) announced Thursday that he will not seek reelection and will retire from public office. His announcement ended months of speculation about whether he would seek a third term during the 2026 midterm elections.