Major statewide union backs Rodriguez in crowded Democratic primary

MILWAUKEE, WI—In a major development in the 2026 governor’s race, AFSCME Wisconsin — representing thousands of state, county, municipal, and frontline workers across Wisconsin — today announced its endorsement of Lt. Governor Sara Rodriguez for Governor. This marks one of the most influential labor endorsements in the state and a clear signal that working people see Rodriguez as the strongest candidate to win in November and fight for them in office.

“We are proud to stand with a leader who has spent her life on the front lines, both as a nurse and an elected official devoted to enacting laws that help working people thrive rather than serving the interests of politicians,” said AFSCME Wisconsin President Paul Spink. “As the people who make public services a reality for our communities, we are excited to endorse Sara Rodriguez for Governor and stand beside her in this critical race.”

AFSCME’s support comes after a highly competitive endorsement process and reflects workers’ confidence in Rodriguez’s record of delivering for public employees, strengthening workers’ rights, and rebuilding respect for frontline workers across Wisconsin.

“I am deeply honored to earn AFSCME Wisconsin’s endorsement. Public workers keep this state running — in our prisons and public hospitals, our classrooms and county offices, our sanitation and human services departments. They deserve a governor who listens, respects their work, and fights like hell for their rights,” said Lt. Governor Sara Rodriguez. “I grew up in a proud union household. As Lt. Governor, I’ve worked directly with AFSCME members across Wisconsin to strengthen pay, improve safety, expand mental health supports, and rebuild the dignity of public service. As governor, I will restore collective bargaining rights, repeal right-to-work, rebuild our public workforce, and make Wisconsin a national leader for worker power once again. I’m proud to stand with AFSCME — and I’m grateful they’re standing with me.”

The endorsement adds to Rodriguez’s rapidly growing statewide coalition, following support from local leaders in all 72 counties and a historic $2 million investment from the Democratic Lt. Governors Association — the largest ever for a lieutenant governor seeking higher office. With AFSCME’s backing, Rodriguez is assembling the resources, support and statewide infrastructure needed to win in 2026 – more than any Democrat in the race – making her the most viable candidate to win the general election.

Learn more at www.saraforwi.com. Download the campaign’s candidate media kit here. 

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