Today, former Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes showed Wisconsin he’s the only candidate for Governor with the experience and energy to lead this state and tackle the state’s affordability crisis.

Barnes led the field during every minute of the Democratic primary debate, helping explain why he’s the only candidate beating Tom Tiffany in the polls.

‘To everybody watching at home, I want you to know that the establishment is trying to rig this election. They want you to choose between their preferred candidate, and also Republican billionaires are lining up to the tune of three and a half million dollars to choose a Democratic nominee in this race” said Lieutenant Barnes in his closing statement. “I’m here to say that’s BS. I’ve been a progressive fighter who’s taken on the tough fights, but also the only candidate on this stage who’s actually defeating Tom Tiffany, according to the most recent Marquette poll.”

“We can get things done, but it starts on August 11th,” Barnes continued. “I’m asking for your support so that we can go into November with the strength, and that we can go into January with the mandate to govern in the interest of [the] people.”

Speaking with reporters following the debate, Barnes called for additional debates ahead of the August 11 primary to ensure Wisconsinites understand the sharp differences between the candidates running for Governor.

“I think we need another debate. 
I think there needs to be another, equal distinct, deserve to hear more from the candidates, especially in a primary that has been as wide, chaotic, and unpredictable” said Lt. Governor Mandela Barnes.