David Crowley Reenters Wisconsin Governor Race

David Crowley, the Milwaukee County executive, has rejoined the Democratic primary for Wisconsin governor. Two weeks after suspending his campaign, Crowley reentered the race with last-minute support from outgoing Gov. Tony Evers. Evers, initially hesitant to endorse any candidate, decided to back Crowley with hopes of securing a Democratic victory in November.

The decision to back Crowley comes at a time when Democrats are focusing on the November elections. They aim to gain control of the Wisconsin state government for the first time since 2010. Milwaukee hosted an event on Saturday where Crowley relaunched his campaign, emphasizing the election’s importance. Crowley stated, “Winning this election will require building the broadest possible coalition,” and highlighted his skills in fostering bipartisan relationships.

Evers, though on a trade visit to Africa, expressed his full support for Crowley via social media, praising his leadership in job creation and budget management. He wrote, “He’s not just a candidate who can win in November, but he’s the kind of person who cares about doing the job right.”

Crowley, aged 40, reenters a competitive primary, which saw shifts with Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez’s departure due to a campaign finance issue. Rodriguez’s exit has opened opportunities in the Democratic race. Crowley’s return pits him against candidates like Francesca Hong, former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, state Sen. Kelda Roys, and Joel Brennan.

Francesca Hong’s campaign adds an additional dynamic, testing the Democratic Party’s liberal boundaries. Crowley hopes to become Wisconsin’s first Black governor. He initially abandoned his campaign to support Rodriguez but has returned, offering a revitalized effort with Evers’ endorsement.

The Democrats’ focus now includes not only retaining the governor’s office but also gaining a majority in the state legislature. The primary is scheduled for August 11. Crowley has expressed determination, stating, “I wouldn’t have gotten into this race if I didn’t believe a pathway was there.” He aims to prevent Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany from promoting a MAGA agenda in the state.

Democratic primaries across the country have faced challenges. In California, the governor’s race turned chaotic, resulting in unexpected outcomes. In Wisconsin, Crowley’s original campaign highlighted his personal journey from homelessness to becoming a community organizer and later an elected official.

The winner of Wisconsin’s Democratic primary will face Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany in the general election. Tiffany has criticized Crowley’s role as county executive, calling his return the Democrats’ “only shot” against a candidate aiming to dismantle police and prison systems.

The Republican Governors Association commented on the Democratic primary dynamics, describing it as chaotic.