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Wisconsin's Superintendent Files to Challenge Gov. Scott Walker in 2018

State Superintendent Tony Evers has filed paperwork to challenge Gov. Scott Walker in a 2018 race, according to state campaign records.

By Molly Beck

State Superintendent Tony Evers has filed paperwork to challenge Gov. Scott Walker in a 2018 race, according to state campaign records.

Evers said earlier this month he had heard from a number of supporters urging him to run for governor after he earned 70 percent of votes cast in an April election to secure a third term as head of the state's 422 school districts.

But Evers isn't calling the move a "final decision."

"As I continue talking with voters about the future of our state, this is the next logical for me to take," Evers said in a statement. "My record of public service and leadership on behalf of Wisconsin families, kids, and educators brings a unique and different choice for voters. One that I believe provides a compelling alternative to the status quo. I look forward to making a final decision in the near future."

Though the position of state superintendent is officially nonpartisan, Evers has been backed by Democrats and teachers unions in his three elections.

He is the most prominent Democrat to file paperwork to run against Walker, who more than $2 million on hand heading into 2018, according to the latest campaign finance records.

A spokesman for Walker did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(c)2017 The Wisconsin State Journal (Madison, Wis.)

Caroline Cournoyer is GOVERNING's senior web editor.
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