Josh Schoemann has spent the past decade at the helm of one of Wisconsin’s most reliably conservative counties—and now he’s aiming statewide. First elected as Washington County Executive in 2020 and re-elected in 2024, Schoemann built his reputation as a steady fiscal manager and advocate for limited government. Before that, he served over six years as the county’s top administrator. Under his leadership, Washington County has emphasized low taxes, lean government, and conservative values—a model Schoemann hopes to bring to the governor’s office. His record, combined with deep ties to veterans’ groups, civic organizations, and the WELS church, positions him as a serious contender in the GOP primary.
Schoemann officially filed to run for governor this week, becoming the first major-party candidate in the race and setting the stage for a long campaign. He’ll formally launch his candidacy on Sunday, May 4, at a “Summer Kickoff Cookout” in West Bend.
His early entry brings both opportunity and risk. On one hand, it allows him to define the race early, connect with grassroots conservatives, and begin building name recognition across the state. On the other, the challenges are steep.
Fundraising:
Maintaining donor enthusiasm and securing financial resources for an extended campaign is a significant hurdle. Schoemann is not individually wealthy so he will need significant donor support in the primary to get his message out. He lacks name ID outside of Washington County. Without a primary opponent yet declared, some major Republican donors may hold back until the field clarifies. National Republican support could also hinge on whether Democratic Governor Tony Evers seeks a third term—a decision expected after the 2025 state budget is finalized.
Staffing and Infrastructure:
Building and maintaining a statewide campaign team over 18 months is a logistical and financial challenge—but it’s made even more complicated by Schoemann’s day job. As the sitting County Executive of Washington County, he’ll be balancing the demands of local governance with the grind of a gubernatorial campaign. Hiring and sustaining high-quality staff, preventing volunteer attrition, and coordinating across Wisconsin’s vast geography will require discipline and delegation—especially with limited time to be on the trail full time. Without consistent momentum or national attention early, keeping infrastructure in place could prove difficult.
Media and Messaging:
Schoemann will need to keep voters engaged without overexposing himself too early. Sustaining relevance for over a year and a half, especially in a media landscape dominated by national politics, will test his campaign’s communications team.
If Evers chooses not to run, the GOP field could quickly grow. For now, Schoemann’s move makes him the early frontrunner and the one to watch
Other Potential Candidates
While Schoemann is the first major-party candidate to formally enter the race, he’s unlikely to be the last. U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany is widely expected to consider a run, and businessman Eric Hovde—fresh off his 2024 Senate campaign—has also been mentioned. Former Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch, the 2022 GOP nominee, has made no moves yet, but remains a potential contender. Names like businessman Bill Berrien and former Congressman Sean Duffy continue to circulate as well. Looming over the entire field is the question of who will secure the coveted endorsement of former President Donald Trump, which could quickly reshape the Republican primary landscape.