Republican candidate Tim Michels conceded the Wisconsin governor's race to incumbent Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, according to multiple sources early Wednesday morning.
Michels, co-owner of Michels Construction, announced his concession in a speech lasting less than five minutes, according to Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter Katelyn Ferral.
"In hindsight, looking back, I don't know what we would have done differently," Michels said at his watch party. "It was a very spirited effort ... but it wasn't our night tonight."
Evers currently leads Michels 51% to 48% with 93% of statewide votes reported.
At the Evers watch party event, event organizers confirmed the concession. The Evers campaign as well as Students for Tony began handing out signs to attendees at the Orpheum. After CNN called the race for Evers, the crowd erupted in chants of "Tony, Tony, Tony."
Michels scored an endorsement from former President Donald Trump during the Republican primary. His campaign focused on crime and K-12 education, among other topics.
Tyler Katzenberger is the former managing editor at The Daily Cardinal. He also served as the state news editor, covering numerous protests, elections, healthcare, business and in-depth stories. He previously interned with The Capital Times, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and is an incoming POLITICO California intern. Follow him on Twitter at @TylerKatzen.
Gavin Escott is the campus news editor for the Daily Cardinal. He has covered protests, breaking news and written in-depth on Wisconsin politics and higher education. He is the former producer of the Cardinal Call podcast. Follow him on X at @gav_escott.
Gabriella Hartlaub is the former arts editor for The Daily Cardinal. She has also written state politics and campus news. She currently is a summer reporting intern with Raleigh News and Observer. Follow her on Twitter at @gabihartlaub.
