Mandela Barnes

Former state Rep. Mandela Barnes has launched a campaign for lieutenant governor, joining three others — Kurt Kober, Rob Slamka and William Henry Davis III — who are seeking the Democratic nomination for the position.

Barnes, a 31-year-old African-American from Milwaukee, said Democrats need to do a better job connecting with young voters and people of color. He said his message of championing education access, economic possibilities and environmental protection is one that resonates with them and others who have felt left behind under Scott Walker and the state’s Republican majority.

Barnes said his message of advocating for economic equality will resonate with voters who haven't seen their wages increase and don't have access to affordable healthcare.

Barnes said he wouldn’t endorse anyone in the crowded Democratic field for governor, which has about 17 declared candidates, nine of whom are considered top-tier candidates. Whoever emerges from the lieutenant governor primary will be paired with the gubernatorial primary winner.

Barnes said that as a member of the Assembly from 2013 to 2017 and as second vice chair of the state Democratic Party, he is the most qualified candidate. He currently works for State Innovation Exchange, doing research and policy work for state lawmakers.

Barnes ran for state Senate in 2016, losing in the primary to incumbent Sen. Lena Taylor.

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