(The Center Square) – Democrat Dr. Kristin Lyerly has poured more than $1 million into her campaign for Wisconsin’s 8th congressional district, even as major election forecasters predict her opponent Tony Wied will likely win the race.
As of Sept. 30, Lyerly’s campaign has raised more than $2 million and spent more than $1.4 million, according to Federal Election Commission campaign finance data. Wied has raised $1.37 million and spent $1.14 million.
Election forecasts of the 8th district heavily favor Wied, with The Hill projecting Wied has a 99% chance of winning and The Economist predicting Wied is “almost certain” to win.
Neither candidate has held political office, though Lyerly ran in 2020 for State Assembly and lost to Republican John Macco. The 8th district seat has no incumbent as Republican Rep. Mike Gallager retired in April.
Lyerly, an OBGYN who has received endorsements from Sen. Tammy Baldwin, Gov. Tony Evers, and EMILYs List, has focused her campaign largely on expanding abortion and health care access.
Trump-endorsed businessman Wied has focused on the economy and immigration.
