Updated: June 9, 2026

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- State elections are recommending that a controversial brewery owner not be allowed on the ballot in the race for Wisconsin governor. 

Kirk Bangstad has drawn national attention for his offer to serve free beer at Minocqua Brewing Company the day President Donald Trump dies. 

Bangstad has filed to run for governor as a Democrat. 

However, the Wisconsin Election Commission (WEC) found last week he only turned in 1,500 valid signatures -- short of the required minimum 2,000. 

Bangstad appealed, hoping to have more of his submitted signatures counted. 

However, the WEC ruled it recommends denying that appeal. 

Commissioners are making their final rulings during a meeting happening now

Published: June 3, 2026

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The owner of Minocqua Brewing Company will not be on the ballot in the race for Wisconsin governor. 

Kirk Bangstad failed to submit enough valid signatures to qualify. 

He entered the race last month after drawing national attention for controversial social media posts about President Trump. 

The Democratic primary is Aug. 11. The general election is Nov. 3.