“Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes on Tuesday joined the crowded Democratic field for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Republican Sen. Ron Johnson, vying to become the first African American from Wisconsin to serve in the Senate. Barnes, 34, is the first Black lieutenant governor in Wisconsin history. He is giving up a chance to run for a second term in 2022 as Gov. Tony Evers’ running mate. Instead, Barnes becomes the seventh Democrat to enter the race, with an eighth expected to get in soon. Barnes released a campaign video Tuesday morning ahead of a planned event in Milwaukee, his hometown.”
“‘I’m running for the United States Senate because when things get tough, we shouldn’t lower our expectations,’ Barnes said in a statement. ‘Instead of changing our dreams, we need to change the game. Hard-working Wisconsin families deserve every opportunity, but politicians like Senator Ron Johnson aren’t delivering.’ Johnson has not said yet whether he will seek a third term, but through June he had raised more money than any of the Democratic candidates at that point. Barnes brings some name recognition to the Democratic field that includes other current office holders, political newcomers, a doctor and an executive with the Milwaukee Bucks” – ABC News.