Wisconsin Democrats have selected Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley as their gubernatorial nominee in a pivotal election. Crowley, seen as a moderate, defeated state Rep. Francesca Hong despite her early lead in the polls. Hong, associated with the Democratic Socialists of America, missed the nomination after key party figures backed Crowley.
Crowley will face Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany, a member of the House Freedom Caucus, in a general election expected to draw national interest. While Crowley has established himself as a moderate choice, questions about his actual stance remain.
Crowley appeared with Hong at a Wisconsin Democrats unity event in Middleton, where he pledged to unite the party’s diverse factions. He attributed his primary win to retiring Democratic Gov. Tony Evers’ support, referring to Evers as a ‘secret weapon’. Evers emphasized Crowley’s significance for the party’s future.
Crowley’s path to the nomination was not straightforward. He initially left the race in July but reentered after discussions with his wife. His platform promises affordable housing, universal early childhood education, expanded healthcare, and clean energy investments.
Crowley has been critical of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, opposing partnerships with the agency. His campaign stressed the importance of his nomination to maintain Democratic control in Wisconsin.
State Democratic leaders like Andy Beshear and Devin Remiker expressed their support for Crowley, highlighting his commitment to working-class issues and readiness for the general election. They stressed the importance of unity against Republican nominee Tom Tiffany.
Crowley’s campaign manager, Garren Randolph, emphasized the need for cooperation across party lines, contrasting Crowley’s approach with the division associated with Tiffany and President Donald Trump.
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