Democrat Peng Her, CEO of Hmong Institute, enters lt. governor race

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Peng Her, the CEO of the Hmong Institute, is the next candidate to enter Wisconsin's lieutenant governor race.

Her joins a crowded field of candidates, and if elected would become the first Hmong statewide office-holder in Wisconsin.

"As important it is to be the first person to run in this position, it's even more important not to be the last person to do this," Her said. "I think as we open up our government and board rooms to diverse leaders, it really helps bring new ideas, new perspective and energy."

Her, a Democrat, is a small business owner and CEO of the Hmong Institute in Madison which provides education and outreach to improve communities of color. He also serves on Gov. Tony Evers' early childhood and homelessness task force.

Other Democrats in the race include state Sen. Lena Taylor (D-Milwaukee) and state Rep. David Bowen (D-Milwaukee) and Rep. Sara Rodriguez (D-Brookfield).

The seat is up for grabs since Lt. Governor Mandela Barnes is running for U.S. Senate.

There are also several Republicans seeking a bid, including state Sen. Patrick Testin (R-Stevens Point), Lancaster Mayor David Varnman, Ben Voelkel, a former aid to U.S. Senator Ron Johnson, Kyle Yudes, David King, and Will Martin.

The primary will take place on Aug. 9 and the winner will be paired up with Gov. Evers as he seeks a second term.