For the first time in nearly a decade, a vocal and committed opponent of Wisconsin’s school voucher program will occupy the governor’s mansion in Wisconsin. Tony Evers, governor-elect and former state superintendent, has called the expansion of school choice statewide “morally wrong.” During the campaign, he said he’d like to freeze enrollment and phase out the growing voucher program. While a Republican state legislature may hinder Evers’ ambitions, he is likely to prioritize public schools in Wisconsin and push for new regulations intended to hinder the growth of school choice.

In addition to a close connection to teachers unions, Evers’ position reflects a belief among many that education doesn’t function well within a market setting. They argue that too many bad schools, across sectors, remain open. There is frustration that families, for one reason or another, aren’t choosing good schools. Many see government regulation as the only answer.