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- calendar_today October 25, 2026
The Significance of the Wisconsin Lieutenant Governor
In Wisconsin politics, the role of the lieutenant governor carries more weight than some might expect. Though it’s rare, state history shows that a lieutenant governor can ascend to the governor’s office under unexpected circumstances. This possibility was highlighted recently after the Republican gubernatorial candidate, Tom Tiffany, survived a plane accident on September 12, 2026. The incident served as a reminder that, in cases of accident, death or resignation, the lieutenant governor is next in line.
Over the last 50 years, only two lieutenant governors have become governor: Martin Schreiber in 1977 when Patrick Lucey became U.S. ambassador to Mexico, and Scott McCallum in 2001 when Tommy Thompson joined the federal government as Secretary of Health and Human Services.
Who Are the Lieutenant Governor Candidates?
In the 2026 Wisconsin governor race, two notable names are running for lieutenant governor as gubernatorial running mates: Republican David Varnam and Democrat Sarah Godlewski. Each brings a distinct background and perspective to the campaign, underscoring the role’s importance as a potential stepping stone to the state’s highest office.
David Varnam: Republican Candidate and Mayor of Lancaster
David Varnam, 47, is completing his third term as mayor of Lancaster. He became a statewide political figure recently, after over a decade in Wisconsin, having moved so his wife, Jessica, could practice medicine in Lancaster. They are parents of two daughters. On social media and in public statements, Varnam presents himself as a “Christian conservative” and a “pro-life, 2nd amendment conservative.”
Varnam emphasized his hands-on experience in elected office during the Republican primary, where he defeated Will Martin, who had the endorsement of the Republican Party of Wisconsin. In his Gazette questionnaire responses, Varnam noted the importance of having held public office as potential preparation for stepping in as governor if needed.
According to his campaign website, Varnam lists his key achievements as Lancaster’s mayor, including vetoing a proposed 40% stormwater fee hike and defeating a wheel tax proposal. He describes himself primarily as “husband and father” concerned about Wisconsin’s direction and his daughters’ future. Previously, he has served as president of Grant County Economic Development, worked as a U.S. congressional aide, and as a federal policy analyst for Focus on the Family, an evangelical organization.
Sarah Godlewski: Democrat with Statewide Experience
Sarah Godlewski, 44, is the current Wisconsin secretary of state and a former state treasurer. She is an Eau Claire native and has frequently been a prominent speaker at Democratic rallies. After leading a campaign to preserve the office of state treasurer, she was elected to the position in 2018 with 1.3 million votes. Her work elevated her profile within Wisconsin politics and set the stage for her run for the U.S. Senate in 2022, which she ended early in favor of Mandela Barnes.
Governor Tony Evers appointed Godlewski as secretary of state in March 2023, after longtime incumbent Doug La Follette resigned. In her current campaign for lieutenant governor, Godlewski has made reproductive rights a central theme, stating at an October 6 event with gubernatorial running mate David Crowley and U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, “Wisconsin women’s fundamental freedoms are on the ballot.” She has pledged to defend abortion rights and criticized the influence of wealthy donors on the opposition's campaign.
The Role’s Importance in the 2026 Election
Though the lieutenant governor’s duties may seem limited, the office is always only a heartbeat away from Wisconsin’s top executive position. The experiences of both Varnam and Godlewski have prepared them for such responsibilities. Their policy views, backgrounds, and leadership styles offer voters a clear choice as they consider not just a lieutenant governor, but potentially a future governor as well.
Looking Ahead in Wisconsin Politics
The Wisconsin lieutenant governor race in 2026 draws attention to the importance of lieutenant governor candidates and their readiness for high office. Voters will watch closely as Varnam and Godlewski present their cases, knowing the winner could one day take on Wisconsin’s highest political role.
Source: isthmus.com.
