Reaction poured in from both parties after Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers announced he would not seek a third term, retiring from statewide elected office after nearly two decades.

Wisconsin’s Democratic governor, Tony Evers, announced Thursday that he will not seek a third term in 2026, creating the first open race for governor in the battleground state in 16 years.

"I care deeply about the direction Wisconsin takes from here. It is more important than ever that Wisconsin continues to have strong leadership," said David Crowley.

Gov. Evers' decision not to seek a third term didn't change much for Republicans. But for Democrats, it changes everything.

Wisconsin Democratic Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, a former emergency room nurse, announced Friday that she is running for governor, the day after the incumbent decided against seeking a third term.