Overview

• Hughes, appointed by Gov. Tony Evers to lead WEDC and unanimously confirmed in 2021 and 2023, announced her bid Monday after resigning on Sept. 19.
• The attorney and former Organic Valley executive emphasizes a nonpolitician profile built on 17 years in the private sector.
• Her platform highlights higher wages, strong public schools, affordable child care and health care, and attainable housing.
• She joins a Democratic field that includes Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, state Sen. Kelda Roys, and state Rep. Francesca Hong, with Josh Kaul and Mandela Barnes considering runs.
• U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany and Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann lead the Republican field after Bill Berrien exited, with the primary set for Aug. 11, 2026.