David Crowley Wins Democratic Nomination for Wisconsin Governor

David Crowley, the Milwaukee County Executive, has secured the Democratic nomination for the governor of Wisconsin. The Associated Press called the race, confirming Crowley’s narrow victory over state Rep. Francesca Hong. Hong, a democratic socialist, had posed a significant challenge to the party leadership.

Crowley had previously paused his struggling campaign due to low poll numbers and limited funding. However, he quickly restarted his efforts, receiving support from the outgoing Democratic Governor, Tony Evers. This backing helped Crowley counter Hong’s growing influence.

The loss for Hong follows a trend of progressive successes in recent primaries nationwide. Despite the defeat, the tight race highlights a desire for change among Democratic voters.

If successful in the general election, the 40-year-old Crowley would become Wisconsin’s first Black governor. He will compete against U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany, backed by Trump, who won his party’s primary decisively. Tiffany, a staunch conservative, once challenged the 2020 election results. With Trump’s popularity waning, Tiffany is positioning himself as a relatable Wisconsiner and a stable choice compared to what he calls Democratic disorder.

For Republicans, the upcoming election represents an opportunity to gain control of the governor’s office. Democrats aim to retain it and win at least one legislative chamber, both currently under GOP control.

Supporters view Crowley as more electable compared to Hong, whose controversial positions on police defunding and other issues could fuel Republican attacks. His campaign rebounded by raising three times more money post-relaunch compared to the previous year. Crowley argued that national Republican groups were inflating Hong’s profile to face an easier opponent.

Despite accusations of being an establishment candidate, Crowley maintains a personal history rooted in Milwaukee’s inner city. He experienced challenges such as eviction and family substance abuse. He advanced through political ranks, having worked on Democratic U.S. Senator Russ Feingold’s 2010 campaign before serving in the state Assembly. In 2020, he became both the youngest and first Black Milwaukee County Executive.