Kristin Lyerly, Wisconsin doctor who sued to keep abortion legal in state, enters congressional race

A doctor who performs abortions became the first Democratic candidate in Wisconsin's 8th Congressional District on Thursday, entering the race for the seat opened up by the surprise retirement of Republican Rep. Mike Gallagher.

Dr. Kristin Lyerly, an obstetrician and gynecologist, launched her candidacy two weeks before Gallagher's expected departure date. Because of the timing of his resignation, there will be no special election.

For now, Lyerly is unopposed in the Democratic primary to be decided Aug. 13. Democrats fielded no candidate in the 2022 election.