David Crowley Triumphs in Wisconsin Democratic Primary, Poised to Challenge MAGA Hardliner Tom Tiffany
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Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley narrowly defeated progressive Francesca Hong in the Democratic primary and will confront far-right Trump loyalist Rep. Tom Tiffany in the Wisconsin governor's race.
Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley narrowly surpassed state Assembly member Francesca Hong by less than half a point in Tuesday's Democratic primary, clinching the party’s nomination for Wisconsin governor. Despite earlier polling favoring Hong, Crowley’s victory represents a win for coalition-building and pragmatic progressivism, setting the stage for a crucial battle against Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany, a politician who has unfailingly aligned himself with the reactionary agenda of President Donald Trump.
Crowley, recognized for his efforts to bridge divides in Milwaukee, declared that his campaign would unite progressives and moderates to defeat what he rightfully called a “MAGA extremist.” He committed to exposing Tiffany’s deep ties to Trump and the regressive Make America Great Again movement, which has repeatedly threatened democracy, marginalized communities, and undermined social progress.
Former Republican Governor Scott Walker acknowledged that Tiffany faces the difficult task of distancing himself from Trump’s toxic legacy, while former state Senate Majority Leader Dale Schultz noted that Crowley’s win forces the campaign to confront urgent issues like economic inequality, the crisis in Iran, and the ongoing struggle to make healthcare accessible and affordable for all.
Wisconsin’s razor-thin election margins in recent years—Trump’s narrow wins in 2016 and 2024, and his slim loss in 2020—underscore the state’s battleground status. Crowley’s own narrow primary victory highlights the importance of every vote in the fight against right-wing extremism.
Democrats are determined to leverage Trump’s plummeting approval ratings to not only retain the governor’s office but also to flip both legislative chambers, aiming for a progressive trifecta that could finally undo years of conservative obstruction since 2010.
Tiffany, desperate to distract from his own record, tried to smear Crowley by linking him to Hong, cynically suggesting that Crowley’s leadership would mean higher taxes and mismanagement. Republican strategist Rusty Schultz admitted that energizing the younger, more progressive voters who backed Hong will be a challenge for the GOP.
Crowley, 40, made history as the first Black candidate to secure a major party’s nomination for Wisconsin governor. After briefly suspending his campaign in July due to institutional barriers, he returned with the crucial endorsement of Governor Tony Evers. Crowley emphasized that while his historic candidacy is significant, his priority remains fighting for justice, equity, and real change for all Wisconsinites.