Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers broke the state’s record for pardons granted by a single governor years ago, and he continues to raise his tally. The governor announced Thursday that he had granted 220 more pardons, including his 2,000th pardon. He actually passed that milestone and brought his total to 2,027 since taking office. Evers’ stance on pardons is the polar opposite of his predecessor, Republican Gov. Scott Walker. During his entire two-term tenure, Walker did not issue a single pardon. By contrast, Evers has set the state pardon record and also signed two executive orders last month to reinstate Wisconsin’s commutation process. The vast majority of Evers’ pardons have been for those convicted of nonviolent drug offenses such as marijuana possession or selling a controlled substance.
Gov. Evers grants over 2,000 pardons
May 21, 2026 | 3:10 PM











