Wisconsin Gov. Evers Urges Lawmakers to Work Through Election Year

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In his final primetime State of the State address, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers is asking state lawmakers to continue working through the end of 2026 instead of taking nine months off to campaign for the upcoming election. The two-term Democratic governor plans to highlight the state's progress and urge the legislature to maintain focus on the future.

Why it matters

Evers' plea for the legislature to remain in session is an unusual move, as lawmakers often take extended breaks during election years to focus on campaigning. The governor's request underscores his desire to keep the state government functioning and advancing key priorities rather than having the legislative process grind to a halt.

The details

In his final State of the State address on Tuesday evening, Evers will call on the Republican-controlled state legislature to keep working until the end of the year, rather than taking an extended recess to campaign for the November 2026 elections. The governor believes the state cannot afford for lawmakers to "lose focus on the future we've been working hard to build together just because it's an election year."

• Evers will deliver his final State of the State address on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
• The 2026 Wisconsin state elections are scheduled for November.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Evers' final State of the State address will take place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, where he is expected to outline his vision for the state's future and urge the legislature to remain in session through the end of the year.