Hughes suspends campaign for governor, endorses Rodriguez

MADISON, Wis. (WMDX) – A Democratic candidate for governor in Wisconsin is suspending their campaign.

Missy Hughes, the former director of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, announced Monday afternoon that she is suspending her campaign and endorsing Sara Rodriguez.

“I will always look for ways to serve, but it won’t be as governor,” Hughes said in a statement. “Today, I am suspending my campaign.”

Today I am suspending my campaign for Governor and proudly endorsing Lieutenant Governor @SaraForWI.

Read my full statement. pic.twitter.com/fFx6hSVZYB

— Missy Hughes (@MissyforWI) June 22, 2026

Hughes’ departure from the race means six Democrats will continue to vie for the party nomination ahead of the August 11 primary: Rodriguez, who is currently lieutenant governor, state Sen. Kelda Roys, Assembly Rep. Francesca Hong, former lieutenant governor Mandela Barnes, Milwaukee Co. executive David Crowley, and Greater Milwaukee Committee president Joel Brennan, a former Tony Evers administration official.

The winner of the primary among the six remaining candidates will face off against presumptive Republican nominee, Rep. Tom Tiffany, in this fall’s general election.

“We need to keep a Democrat in the governor’s office and we cannot rest,” Hughes said. “I deeply believe that Sara is the best candidate we can put forward to win in November.”

You can read Hughes’ full statement on social media.