Eric Toney, the longtime Fond du Lac County District Attorney, has announced he will run for Wisconsin Attorney General in 2026. The Republican previously challenged Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul in 2022, losing by about 35,000 votes.
In his campaign announcement, Toney cited his recovery from open-heart surgery as part of his decision to return to the race. He said his campaign will focus on supporting law enforcement, addressing violent crime across the state, and bringing what he called “conservative, common-sense leadership” to the Department of Justice.
Kaul, who confirmed earlier this month that he will seek a third term, has led the department since 2019 and was involved in several high-profile cases, including Wisconsin’s challenge to its 1849 abortion ban.
The 2026 general election is set for November 3, with the Republican primary scheduled for August 11. Toney is currently the first Republican to announce a run for the office.