MADISON, WI (WSAU) — Former Governor and Interim UW System President Tommy Thompson will not join the GOP race for Governor this year.
Thompson made the announcement on Monday, saying it was a difficult decision because he knows he has the “vision, drive, and vitality to serve another term as Governor.”
The 80-year-old has already won four elections for Governor, serving from 1987 to 2001 when he left midway through his term to serve in former President George H.W. Bush’s cabinet.
Most recently he served as Interim President of the UW System while the search for a new President was conducted. He stepped away from that post in March while hinting at another run for public office.
He reportedly discussed the move with former President Donald Trump during a visit to Florida before making the announcement.
The winner of the Republican primary for Governor will face Democratic incumbent Tony Evers during the November mid-term election.
The GOP field already includes former Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch, businessman Kevin Nicholson, and State Representative Timothy Ramthun.
