Setback for Far-Left as Wisconsin’s Gubernatorial Race Narrows

The ideological battle within the Democratic Party witnessed a significant event on Tuesday, as State Representative Francesca Hong lost her bid to become the Democratic gubernatorial nominee in Wisconsin to Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. The primary result reflects a growing challenge faced by the party’s progressive wing against its more moderate establishment.

Crowley, who received strong backing from the retiring Democratic Governor Tony Evers, positions himself to compete against Representative Tom Tiffany, a staunch conservative supported by former President Donald Trump. This gubernatorial race is a potential opportunity for Republicans to gain control.

Francesca Hong, a state lawmaker from Madison and a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, entered the contest with support from national progressives like Representatives Ilhan Omar of Minnesota and Ro Khanna of California. However, she did not receive the endorsement from Senator Bernie Sanders. Hong campaigned on a platform encompassing initiatives such as paid leave, increasing the minimum wage, and a halt on AI data center constructions.

“I’m not defunding the police, not abolishing police. I am serious about public safety,” Hong emphasized recently, responding to scrutiny over past statements.

Amid controversy, Hong’s previous comments about Thanksgiving drew national attention. She had once urged to “cancel Thanksgiving” to cease the celebration of colonialism, but has since retracted, stating the holiday is her favorite.

The Democratic primary took a notable turn when major contenders like Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez and former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes exited. Crowley, having suspended his campaign to support Rodriguez, re-entered and ultimately triumphed. His victory highlights concerns among moderates about the risk of Hong’s nomination potentially aiding the Republican candidacy.

Pro-GOP super PACs invested significantly to support Hong during the primary, seeing her as the weaker opponent for Tiffany. A local Democratic strategist expressed concern that with Hong leading the ticket, Democrats could struggle in key midwestern races.

In an interview prior to the primary, Tiffany declared his campaign’s goal to stop socialism, anticipating a challenge against Hong. Yet, Hong remained confident, asserting that the true measure of electability is securing voter support.