Sarah Godlewski withdraws from Wisconsin U.S. Senate Democratic primary, clearing path for Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes

Bill GlauberDaniel BiceBen Baker

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

0:17

1:51

FITCHBURG – State Treasurer Sarah Godlewski dropped out of the Democratic U.S. Senate primary Friday, clearing the field of major contenders for the party’s presumptive nominee, Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes.

Barnes will face Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson in November. If elected, Barnes would be the state’s first Black senator. 

Godlewski was the third top-tier candidate to withdraw in the last five days, following the exits of Milwaukee Bucks executive Alex Lasry and Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson. The primary is Aug. 9. 

In a news conference at a child care center, Godlewski announced she had suspended her campaign and endorsed Barnes, who stood by her side.

Godlewski had notified Barnes of her decision in a telephone call late Thursday.

“For me, it was something I reflected on in the last 24 hours,” Godlewski told reporters. “I know that we’re better when we all come together.”

She added: “If there is one thing we know about Mandela Barnes is he is no stranger to running statewide. And he has done well and he’s gonna show like he did in 2018 (when Barnes and Gov. Tony Evers won) and again in 2022, that he is the best candidate and we will defeat Ron Johnson.”

More:The inside story of how the Wisconsin Senate primary broke for Mandela Barnes

More:Alex Lasry drops out of Wisconsin Democratic U.S. Senate primary, endorses Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes

Barnes praised Godlewski for the “spirited campaign” she ran and said he was “grateful” for her support.

“I’ve always admired your determination, your dedication to make the most out of any situation,” Barnes said, noting Godlewski’s effort to save the treasurer’s office.

“You’ve been outspoken about the need for child care, the need for support for working families,” Barnes said.

Barnes then turned to the general election, criticizing Johnso