MILWAUKEE – Today, former Wisconsin State Representative Mandela Barnes (D – Milwaukee) announced that he is running for Wisconsin Lieutenant Governor. He released the following statement regarding his announcement:

“I’m running for Lieutenant Governor because every Wisconsin family deserves the essentials of opportunity: education access, economic possibilities, and environmental protection.

In a time of peak disappointment marked by income inequality reaching its highest point since the great depression, nation-leading middle class decline, and bottom-of-the-list new business start-up growth, it’s time for new leadership.

“In order to right the wrongs of the Walker Administration, we must expand opportunity across the entire state. In my time as a state legislator, I was recognized as one of the nation’s top pro-growth progressive leaders. I have worked to make our communities safe, secure, and more vibrant places to live, so that our children and families have the best chance to sustain and succeed. Unfortunately, Governor Walker and his establishment legislature have stood in the way of true progress for Wisconsin families.

“I remain optimistic that transformational leadership with a vision will not only address our serious challenges, but also unlock our untapped potential. As Lieutenant Governor, I will work to ensure that access to quality and affordable healthcare is as common as the local pub. I will also work to ensure that every zip code has the ‘essentials of opportunity’ so that Wisconsin can regain its lost status as one of the best states in the country for people to live, work, and thrive.

“Over the next several months, I look forward to talking with families about their values and priorities as I work to earn their trust and support to become their Lieutenant Governor.”

As a community organizer, Mandela worked to address some of our most pressing issues, which compelled him to seek a seat in the Wisconsin State Legislature where championed issues of economic opportunity, safe communities, and public education. Mandela most recently worked as the Deputy Director of Strategic Engagement for The State Innovation Exchange (SiX), a national resource and strategy center that supports state legislators in advancing and defending progressive policies across the country.

Mandela for Wisconsin