David Crowley elected Wisconsin governor, becoming state’s first Black governor
Select a version of the text written from a presumed ideological perspective. This is not the original text, but a hypothetical version — how someone with that viewpoint might have phrased it. Tapping the current version again will return to the original or select cleaned version.
Democrat David Crowley defeated Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany in Wisconsin’s gubernatorial race, and Secretary of State Sarah Godlewski won the lieutenant-governor contest.
Democrat David Crowley, Milwaukee County’s executive, won Wisconsin’s governor’s race, making history as the state’s first Black governor. He secured the victory after Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany conceded his defeat in a speech at 9:45 p.m., though the results remain unofficial until certification.
Crowley’s campaign overcame a brief withdrawal from the race in July and a narrow primary win over progressive candidate Francesca Hong. Backed by outgoing Governor Tony Evers, he positioned himself as a candidate with broader statewide appeal.
"We’re proud to bring a new perspective to Madison and to show that anyone, regardless of background, can serve the people of Wisconsin," Crowley said after the results.
Tiffany, who had distanced himself from President Donald Trump despite the president’s endorsement, focused his campaign on Milwaukee’s crime rates and tax issues, warning that Crowley’s policies could spread urban challenges statewide. Crowley countered by linking Tiffany to Trump throughout the campaign and debate.
Secretary of State Sarah Godlewski, Crowley’s running mate, was also elected lieutenant governor. Both officials are slated to assume office in January.
The race was closely watched as Democrats hoped national discontent with President Trump and economic concerns would generate a “blue wave,” but the outcome was not assured until the final count.