Gov. Tony Evers and Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes stressed the role college-aged activists would play in coming elections during an event on campus Thursday.
At the event, hosted by College Democrats and Young Progressives, Evers and Barnes discussed the 2020 presidential election and Democratic National Convention in Milwaukee.
“We are excited to host the DNC in Milwaukee,” Barnes said. “The convention is going to be a great time. I’m very excited about the fact that we will nominate the next president of the United States in my hometown.”
Barnes emphasized that young voters, in his eyes, are not just the target voters in the upcoming election, but an important part of organizing efforts, which he says benefitting Democrats.
He also shared why he thinks the 2020 race is going to go well for Democrats.
“A crowded primary like this will ultimately help our nominee,” Barnes said.
He said each unique candidate brings in new voices and voters from across the political spectrum.
Evers spoke to event attendees after the lieutenant governor and began by thanking them for playing roles in electing him last fall.
“It’s important for us to keep on working right through the next election,” Evers said.
Evers stressed the import role Wisconsin will play in the presidential election, both because of hosting the DNC, but also for candidates trying to gain the youth vote.
“Wisconsin is going to be right in the middle of it,” Evers said.
He wants to ensure presidential candidates don’t treat Wisconsin as a flyover state this time around, telling students to reiterate this message to presidential candidates:
“Make sure that you’re in their ear,” Evers said.
Evers closed by discussing his proposed UW System budget details.
“A new way forward is possible, and we are leading that way here in Wisconsin,” Barnes said. “We are ready to win, and it’s going to take all of you to make it happen.”
