State GOP won't endorse for governor

MIDDLETON, WIS. >> Wisconsin Republicans voted Saturday not to endorse anyone for governor ahead of the GOP primary in August, with former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch falling just short of the 60% needed to get the nod — and cash — that comes with winning the party's official backing.

It marked the first time delegates have not endorsed a candidate for governor. Many activists, and one of Kleefisch's rivals, had argued for not endorsing anyone, saying it would fracture the party.

The winner of the Aug. 9 primary will advance to face Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, in a race that's a top priority for both parties nationally. In addition to Kleefisch, who polls have shown is leading the field, other candidates are construction business co-owner Tim Michels; business consultant and former Marine Kevin Nicholson; and state Rep. Timothy Ramthun.

The Republican endorsement has been highly sought after because it unlocks funding from the state party, which can then spend as much as it wants on the winner.

Now the top candidates will fight it out without any official backing from the party.

Kleefisch got 55%, while

“no endorsement” got 43% on the final ballot. The other candidates were all in the single digits.

After the vote, Kleefisch declared victory, saying she feels “terrific” with getting majority support despite falling short of what was needed for the endorsement.Kleefisch, the only woman running for governor, served eight years under former Gov. Scott Walker between 2011 and 2019.

She described herself at the annual convention outside of Madison as a “tea party mom” and highlighted her victory in a 2011 recall election and her opposition to abortion.

“Now I'm not a biologist.”