Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) announced yesterday that he is seeking reelection.
WATCH:
The news saves Republicans the heartburn of finding a solid replacement in the critical state of Wisconsin. (RELATED: Don't Look Now, Nancy – 25th House Democrat Announces Retirement)
Though Johnson is considered the (slight) favorite, expect Democrats to throw everything at unseating the Republican senator.
As Roll Call reports:
“During the 2016 campaign, I said it would be my last campaign and final term. That was my strong preference, and my wife's,” Johnson wrote in a Wall Street Journal op-ed Sunday. “Neither of us anticipated the Democrats' complete takeover of government and the disastrous policies they have already inflicted on America and the world, to say nothing of those they threaten to enact in the future.”
SEE ALSO: Democrat's Retirement Reveals Golden Opportunity
As one of two states that backed President Joe Biden in 2020 with a Republican-held Senate seat up this year, Wisconsin is a top target for Democrats looking to expand their razor-thin majority. Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales rates the race Lean Republican.
The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee greeted Johnson's announcement by releasing an ad accusing him of using his tenure in the Senate to enrich himself and his allies while “voting to spike the cost of health care for working families.”
While Democrats feel bullish about their chances, they first have to navigate a crowded primary field.
Some progressives have begun to coalesce around Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, who would be the state's first Black senator, if elected. Barnes has been endorsed by Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Milwaukee-area Rep. Gwen Moore and the Progressive Change Campaign Committee. During his first fundraising quarter, Barnes raised $1.1 million. His campaign had $711,000 on hand as of Sept. 30.
SEE ALSO: Senate Candidates Caught Pocketing Money From Convicted Union Boss
How do you feel about Johnson's reelection? Tell us in the comments below — and while you're at it, let us know if you believe Republicans will retake control of the U.S. Senate in November!
