In Madison, Wisconsin, Francesca Hong, a Democratic socialist, finds herself in a competitive race against David Crowley, the candidate favored by the party establishment. This comes after Crowley reignited his campaign due to the withdrawal of a leading contender in the state’s primary for governor.
The winner of this tight race will face Republican U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany in November’s open election. This election could demonstrate the reach of progressives in a vital battleground state. Tiffany advanced easily against a minor opponent.
We have built something that will change politics forever,Hong told her supporters as results remained uncertain.The work we have done will be remembered forever. I know we don’t have the final results right now, but we are ready to keep fighting.
On Tuesday night, Milwaukee reported delays in counting roughly 28,000 absentee ballots due to a human error in data uploading. Results were expected early Wednesday as Crowley’s campaign awaited final numbers with optimism.
Democrats aim to use President Donald Trump’s low approval ratings as leverage. Wisconsin is a state he won in 2016 and 2020. By retaining the governor’s office and potentially flipping both legislative chambers, they hope to gain full control of Wisconsin’s state government for the first time since 2010.
Other Political Developments
In other races, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s son-in-law, Michael Alfonso, emerged victorious in a five-way primary for Duffy’s former seat in the U.S. House. Rebecca Cooke won the Democratic primary, setting up a rematch with Republican U.S. Rep. Derrick Van Orden in one of the state’s most tightly contested congressional districts.
Francesca Hong’s Bold Campaign
Francesca Hong, a single mother and former line cook, has captured Democratic discontent with the party’s mainstream and opposition to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” narrative. Known for her edgy and sometimes humorous social media presence, Hong energized liberal party members with calls for free childcare, healthcare, and opposing AI data center construction. While she has tempered past calls to defund the police, these statements generated mixed reactions.
Hong faced criticism over social media posts about Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day. She dismissed these as attempts at humor. Supporters like Dan Jakubek emphasize her message of affordability as a driving factor in her support.
Some establishment Democrats worry that a Hong victory might simplify a path for Tiffany in November. Governor Tony Evers endorsed Crowley, seeing him as the optimal contender against Tiffany. Crowley urged unity after the primary to prevent a MAGA extremist from taking the governor’s office.
Hong expressed willingness to unite post-primary, We have to come together to beat Tom Tiffany,
she said.
Voters like David Zimmerman expressed concerns about Hong’s electability against Tiffany. Yet, he along with others like Julie Martinson believes Democrats will ultimately rally behind her if she becomes the nominee.
Historical Firsts in Play
In 2020, Hong became the first Asian American in the Wisconsin Assembly. She now seeks to be Wisconsin’s first female and first Asian American governor. Meanwhile, Crowley bids to be the first Black governor of the state.
Changes and Challenges in the Democratic Primary
The primary was marked by candidate withdrawals and returns following Governor Evers’ decision not to seek a third term. An initial field of seven Democrats saw shakeups due to campaign financing scandals and controversies, prompting Crowley to rejoin the race with Evers’ backing.
Alfonso’s Congressional Aspirations
In the congressional district formerly held by his father-in-law, Michael Alfonso seeks to become Congress’s youngest member. Alfonso has Trump’s endorsement, which helped him secure his primary victory.
Despite some pushback from seasoned Republicans citing his youth and inexperience, Alfonso is poised to make a substantial impact. Trump actively supported him, emphasizing his potential to succeed in Washington.
Cooke’s Rematch Against Van Orden
Democrat Rebecca Cooke triumphed in the 3rd Congressional District primary, preparing for a renewed competition against Derrick Van Orden. An advocate for small businesses and former fundraiser, Cooke enters the race amid Trump’s waning approval in Wisconsin.
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