Soon-to-be Wisconsin GOP Senate candidate lives in gated California community with private yacht parking

Eric Hovde is reportedly set to announce his U.S. Senate campaign in Wisconsin next week despite purchasing a $7 million estate in the ultra-wealthy Emerald Bay area in southern California.

Hovde purchased the property in 2018 after a failed run against Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D) in 2012. Now, the 59-year-old banking executive is vying for the same seat with a thin Republican ticket.

It’s unclear how much time Hovde actually spends in Wisconsin, but he spent a significant amount of money to buy a home in a gated community with “unparalleled privacy” and its own fire department. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s Daniel Bice originally reported on the estate last May.

Many prominent millionaires made their homes in Emerald Bay, including philanthropist Warren Buffet, former MLB Commissioner Peter Ueberroth and actress Lori Laughlin. The area also contains a private yacht anchorage and 24/7 security.

In addition to the $7 million payment, Hovde reportedly pays north of $70,000 annually in property taxes for the residence, which boasts its own guest quarters and bathhouse. Two of Hovde’s businesses are also located in California, including a $2.8 billion bank.

Hovde has spent the last several months fundraising and hiring campaign staffers despite declaring his candidacy relatively late. In the past, Hovde has espoused the Great Replacement conspiracy theory and appeared at events alongside book ban advocates.