Ben Voelkel, a former aide to U.S. Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI), announced that he was dropping out of the GOP primary for Lt. Governor, narrowing down the crowded field to eight candidates. According to Wispolitics.com, Voelkel raised $116,019 last year and had $70,080 in cash on hand at the end of 2021. Only State Senators Roger Roth (R-Appleton) and Patrick Testin (R-Stevens Point) had more cash on hand earlier this year. Despite this fundraising, Voelkel did not advance past the first round of voting at the recent RPW convention to gain the state party’s endorsement.
In a statement, Voelkel said that he “…had the right message and a strong start, but it wasn’t enough in a wide-open field.” He said that he would continue to campaign for Republicans in statewide races in the fall, including those for Governor and U.S. Senate.
Wispolitics.com also reported that Voelkel was encouraged by some Republicans to run for the 5th State Senate district, which is being vacated by State Sen. Dale Kooyenga (R-Brookfield). However, Voelkel has gone on record that he will not run for the seat.
