Democratic primaries in Wisconsin and Minnesota highlight ideological split

Tuesday’s primary contests in the Upper Midwest put the Democratic Party’s internal ideological divide on display. In Wisconsin, state Rep. Francesca Hong, who identifies as a democratic socialist, is the front-runner for the party’s nomination for governor, a race seen as pivotal for the party’s prospects in the 2028 presidential election. Hong holds a consistent lead over Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley in recent polls, despite Crowley’s endorsement by Governor Tony Evers, and benefits from a crowded field that includes former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, who withdrew late in the campaign.

Hong’s past advocacy for defunding the police, a stance she now says she no longer supports, has drawn concern from Democratic strategists who warn that her appeal to the party base could be a liability in the general election against Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany, who is backed by President Donald Trump.

In neighboring Minnesota, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan is contesting the Democratic nomination for an open U.S. Senate seat against Rep. Angie Craig, a more centrist lawmaker. The contest reflects a broader pattern of left-leaning challengers facing establishment or moderate opponents in several states holding primaries on Tuesday.

The outcomes carry national implications. A Democratic win in Wisconsin could help the party regain control of the state legislature and redraw congressional districts, a factor that could influence the balance of power in the House and the 2028 presidential race. In Minnesota, Republicans see an opportunity to capture the open Senate seat, given the competitive nature of the Democratic primary.

Other notable races on Tuesday include a potential rematch in Wisconsin’s 3rd congressional district, where nonprofit executive Rebecca Cooke is expected to secure the Democratic nomination to challenge incumbent Rep. Derek Van Orden, and a contested Senate primary in South Carolina following the death of Sen. Lindsey Graham.