Wisconsin Democratic candidates promise Medicaid expansion

Wisconsin Democratic candidates promise Medicaid expansion

The crowded field of Wisconsin Democrats running for governor promised to take federal Medicaid expansion dollars if they defeat Republican Gov. Scott Walker next year.

The comments played well with the audience the candidates were addressing Monday because they were speaking to the Wisconsin Alliance for Retired Americans. Walker has repeatedly rejected Medicaid expansion dollars.

The gathering at Milwaukee’s Italian Community Center marked the first time the Democratic gubernatorial candidates spoke at the same forum. At least 18 candidates have declared an intention to run or are considering it and nearly a dozen were at the event, including Wisconsin schools chief Tony Evers, businessman Andy Gronik and former state Democratic Party Chair Matt Flynn. Flynn plans to formally announce Tuesday.