Wisconsin Lt. Sara Rodriguez Ends Democratic Governor Bid Over Campaign Finances

Wisconsin Lt. Sara Rodriguez ended her Democratic primary campaign for governor on Friday, saying financial discrepancies uncovered in recent days would become an ongoing distraction. Rodriguez, who had been viewed as a leading establishment candidate from the Milwaukee suburbs, made the announcement in a social media post after firing her campaign manager earlier in the week.

“As we have continued to dig into our financial reports, it has become clear there are issues that would be an ongoing distraction,” Rodriguez said. She added that part of leadership is taking swift action and being honest when problems arise. “And because I believe that, I cannot, in good conscience, allow these questions to become a cloud over an election Democrats need to win,” she stated.

The primary is scheduled for Aug. 11.

Democrats are selecting a nominee to succeed Gov. Tony Evers, who chose not to seek a third term. Rodriguez had received an endorsement from Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley before he withdrew his own candidacy on July 8. The withdrawal leaves the Democratic field with fewer candidates, including democratic socialist Francesca Hong.