In Madison, Wisconsin, Moderate Democrat David Crowley emerged victorious in the Wisconsin primary for governor, defeating Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist, who aimed to boost progressives in the battleground state. Crowley, currently the Milwaukee county executive, seeks to become Wisconsin’s first Black governor. He positions himself as the candidate most likely to prevail against Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany, who has President Donald Trump’s endorsement.
Crowley narrowly edged out Hong, who hoped to build on recent progressive successes, like Abdul El-Sayed’s win in Michigan’s U.S. Senate race. El-Sayed’s victory was a notable achievement for the movement in a politically divided state. Party leaders worry that such progressive candidates may struggle against Republicans, threatening efforts to regain control of the U.S. Senate and House.
Crowley’s campaign manager, Garren Randolph, stated, “David is focused on bringing people together, earning the support of Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and anyone who believes Wisconsin is at its best when we work together and deliver results.”
Despite Hong’s loss, her strong showing highlights significant unease among Democratic voters in the state. Hong addressed supporters, expressing pride in their campaign and commitment to continue fighting for change, emphasizing the lasting impact they have made on politics.
Hong’s campaign manager, Becky Cooper, praised their clean campaign that upheld their values while advancing meaningful change for the progressive movement. With Crowley declared the winner by the Associated Press, Hong refrained from requesting a recount as Crowley’s margin exceeded 0.25 percentage points, which would have necessitated her campaign funding the recount.
Progressives sought a definitive victory, but key figures like Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez did not engage in the Wisconsin race. While the movement remains fragmented, it consistently taps into voter dissatisfaction over issues like campaign finance and immigration policies.
In New York City, democratic socialist candidates achieved victory in the June primary elections, removing two Democratic incumbents. The city’s mayor, Zohran Mamdani, described these wins as efforts to elect “better Democrats.”
Wisconsin Democrats aim to leverage low approval ratings for Trump, who won the state in 2016 and 2024, to retain the governor’s office and flip both legislative chambers. Crowley and Hong have both emphasized the importance of Democratic unity to defeat Tiffany, a congressman from northern Wisconsin.
David Zimmerman, a 79-year-old retired professor from Madison, supported Crowley, expressing concern about Hong’s prospects in the November election.
The primary race has been tumultuous, with major candidates dropping out amid scandals. Crowley initially withdrew in July but reentered with Governor Tony Evers’ endorsement. Both candidates campaigned vigorously, arguing for Crowley’s stronger position against Tiffany in a swing state known for close elections.
Hong, a single mother and former line cook, capitalized on Democratic discontent with mainstream politics and Trump’s agenda. She drew enthusiastic support from the party’s liberal wing, advocating for policies like free childcare and healthcare, while navigating criticism for her stance on law enforcement funding.
Beyond the primary battles, the race saw complications when Milwaukee’s absentee ballot results were delayed due to human error. This delay followed reports of several candidates withdrawing and reentering the race amid various controversies.
The Associated Press highlighted the importance of supporting trusted journalism, emphasizing its role as a cornerstone of a healthy democracy.
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