A doctor specializing in abortions has made history as the first Democratic candidate to join the race for Wisconsin’s 8th Congressional District. This seat became available following the unexpected retirement announcement of Republican Representative Mike Gallagher.
Dr. Kristin Lyerly, an obstetrician and gynecologist, announced her candidacy just two weeks before Gallagher’s anticipated departure. Due to the timing of his resignation, there won’t be a special election.
As of now, Lyerly stands unchallenged in the Democratic primary, which is set to take place on August 13. It is worth noting that the Democrats did not put forward any candidate for the 2022 election.
Two Republicans, state Sen. Andre Jacque and former state Sen. Roger Roth, are currently running for the race, with a third candidate expected to join next week. Republican consultant Alex Bruesewitz, aged 26, who was born in Wisconsin but currently resides in Florida, has plans to make an announcement on Monday. However, in order to run for the seat, Bruesewitz would need to relocate back to Wisconsin.
Lyerly emphasized that she would prioritize the issue of abortion in the race.
Lyerly played a crucial role as one of the plaintiffs in a landmark Wisconsin lawsuit that successfully upheld the legality of abortions, even after the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022. As an experienced abortion provider, she ensured access to safe and compassionate care by temporarily relocating her practice to Minnesota following the ruling.
Dr. Lyerly, an OB/GYN, expressed her personal experience with MAGA extremists who oppose a woman’s right to make decisions about her own health. In a statement, she emphasized her unwavering commitment to guaranteeing every woman in their state has access to comprehensive reproductive care, including safe and legal abortions, essential maternity services, and crucial mental health support.
The executive director of Wisconsin Right to Life expressed criticism towards Lyerly’s candidacy, emphasizing the importance of elected officials who prioritize the protection of all life.
Gallagher served northeast Wisconsin for four consecutive terms before his recent departure. This sudden exit has left the Republicans with a slim majority of 217-213 in the House. Such a delicate balance means that they can only afford to lose a single vote when it comes to party-line decisions.
Gallagher encountered disagreement with former President Donald Trump and his followers. Furthermore, he caused discontent among fellow Republicans when he declined to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas last month.
Jacque, Roth, and Bruesewitz, all staunch supporters of Trump, hold strong opposition to abortion.
Despite its solid Republican base, Democrats have made a strong commitment to turning the district into a competitive battleground.
In the 2020 election, President Trump emerged victorious in the district with a 16 percentage point lead, despite losing the state to President Joe Biden by a narrow margin. Congressman Gallagher, on the other hand, has consistently secured re-election three times, consistently winning by a substantial margin of at least 25 points. Spanning across areas like Appleton, Green Bay, Door County, and rural regions extending northwards through Marinette, the district encompasses a diverse mix of urban and rural communities.
