Seven Democratic gubernatorial hopefuls try to separate from the pack at first candidate forum

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The first gubernatorial candidate forum of the campaign season was held Wednesday night, Jan. 21.

Seven Democratic candidates appeared at the Cooperage in downtown Milwaukee to discuss issues most important to voters.

Many of these candidates have already been campaigning for a couple months, but the forum was the first time they squared off in person.

The candidates are former Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes, former Department of Administration Secretary Joel Brennan, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, State Representative Francesca Hong, former Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation director Missy Hughes, Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez, State Senator Kelda Roys.

It's a crowded field vying to win the Democratic primary on August 11.

Many of the candidates have similar ideas, hold similar offices, and have similar name recognition.

Wednesday's forum was the first chance to speak to a wider audience about specific ideas.

There were so many candidates that only a few answered each question.

For instance, four candidates were asked to answer a question about expanding BadgerCare.

The next three candidates were asked to answer a question about expanding access to childcare.

Panelists from throughout the state asked questions about statewide paid family and medical leave, improving access for minority owned and women owned businesses, and expanding tax credits to small or mid-size businesses.

There was one question all candidates were asked to answer. It was about ICE's expected presence in Milwaukee and how the candidates would strike a balance between keeping law and order or appearing soft on crime.

According to the last Marquette Law poll that tracked top issues for Wisconsin voters, Democrats are most concerned with -in order- inflation and cost of living, health insurance, gun violence, housing affordability, and the economy.

The forum was hosted by a group called Main Street Action.

Audience questions asked how the candidates would address teacher shortages and whether they would increase taxes on the wealthiest Wisconsinites.

The Republican primary will also be held August 11, but that field is much smaller.

US Representative Tom Tiffany and Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann are currently the only candidates. At this time, no forums are scheduled for the Republican candidates.