Kelda Roys campaigns against Trump and Musk in Wisconsin governor race

In Wisconsin, Kelda Roys, a state senator, announced her candidacy for governor after previously placing third in the 2018 Democratic primary. Launching her campaign on a Monday, Roys expressed her concerns regarding the influence of figures like President Donald Trump and Elon Musk on democracy in the U.S. She aims to address vital issues such as education, healthcare affordability, and job creation, highlighting her commitment to improving public school systems and defending workers' rights. Roys, an attorney and small business owner, served in the state Assembly from 2009 to 2013, later running for Congress in 2012, and was defeated by Mark Pocan. Since then, she has maintained her focus on progressive values, notably through her opposition to Scott Walker's legislation that curtailed collective bargaining rights for public employees in 2011. In a campaign video, she emphasizes the urgency of her mission, stating that people are fighting for the future of democracy and their children. In addition to Roys, other Democratic candidates entered the governor’s race including Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. Francesca Hong, a Democratic state lawmaker who identifies as a member of the Socialist Caucus, also launched her campaign recently. She is positioning herself as a progressive outsider dedicated to improving the lives of working-class individuals. Hong's focus will be on expanding voter engagement, advocating for lower healthcare costs, and supporting quality education. As the race develops, with Tony Evers stepping down after two terms, the Democratic candidates aim to differentiate themselves as the election draws nearer. With no incumbent running, the potential for a diverse range of candidates makes this election significant, and Roys hopes her experience as a longtime advocate for progressive issues will resonate with voters seeking change. With various candidates expressing their individual platforms, the direction of Wisconsin politics may drastically shift depending on who secures the nomination in the upcoming elections.