The race for the Democratic nomination for Wisconsin governor features Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist, competing against David Crowley, a candidate backed by the party establishment. Hong’s candidacy gains momentum as she challenges the traditional party structure while Crowley rallies his supporters after other contenders exited the chaotic primary.
The winner will face Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany in November. Tiffany had an easy path in the primary against a minor opponent. Hong told her supporters the night before the results that their campaign had significantly impacted politics.
Milwaukee election officials delayed the count of approximately 28,000 absentee ballots due to a data upload error. The results from these ballots were expected early Wednesday, adding uncertainty to the race. The Crowley campaign expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the importance of counting every vote.
With low approval ratings for former President Donald Trump, Democrats see an opportunity to maintain the governor’s office and potentially take control of both state legislative chambers. If successful, it would mark the first time since 2010 that Democrats controlled Wisconsin’s state government fully.
In other primary races, Michael Alfonso, son-in-law of U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, took victory in a five-way primary race for Duffy’s former U.S. House seat. Additionally, Democrat Rebecca Cooke secured a win to set up a rematch with Republican U.S. Rep. Derrick Van Orden in a closely contested district.
Hong’s Impact and Challenges
Hong, a former line cook and single mother, harnessed support from Democrats dissatisfied with the party’s mainstream appeal and Trump’s influence. Known for her colorful language and active social media presence, she energized the liberal wing of the Democratic Party with calls for universal childcare and healthcare and a halt on building data centers using artificial intelligence. Hong clarified her past stance on defunding the police, stating she no longer supports reducing law enforcement funding.
Hong faced backlash for old social media posts, including comments on Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day. Her supporters like Dan Jakubek, 44, believe her focus on affordability resonates with younger voters, suggesting a generational shift in political engagement.
Establishment Democrats are wary of Hong’s ability to compete against Tiffany due to her progressive platform, which may not align with moderate and independent voters crucial in Wisconsin. Gov. Tony Evers endorsed Crowley, emphasizing his perceived strength against Tiffany.
Crowley, preparing for a potential general election match against Tiffany, encouraged unity among Democrats following the primary. While some voters express concern about Hong’s electability, they also show willingness to unite behind her if she becomes the nominee.
Primary Uncertainty and Crowley’s Return
The Democratic primary took unexpected turns as leading candidates, including Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez and former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, exited the race under various circumstances. Their departures led Crowley to re-enter the race, securing support from Gov. Evers.
The tumultuous primary set the stage for a closely-watched general election in a state with razor-thin electoral margins.
Alfonso and Cooke’s Congressional Bids
Michael Alfonso, aiming to become the youngest member of Congress at 26, seeks to reclaim Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District seat, once held by his father-in-law Sean Duffy. Alfonso has Trump’s endorsement, overcoming critiques from some older Republicans regarding his age and experience.
Meanwhile, Rebecca Cooke emerged victorious in a Democratic primary, securing another chance to challenge Rep. Derrick Van Orden. Despite previous losses, Cooke remains a formidable candidate in a closely divided district during a cycle unfavored by Trump’s declining popularity in Wisconsin.