Wisconsin voters are set to participate in a Democratic primary for governor that reflects broader tensions within the party over progressive versus establishment candidates. Francesca Hong, a state legislator who identifies as a democratic socialist, has emerged as the frontrunner in the race to succeed Governor Tony Evers, who is not seeking reelection.
Evers has endorsed David Crowley, the Milwaukee county executive, and the two have campaigned together in recent weeks emphasizing electability arguments. Supporters of Crowley contend he stands a stronger chance of winning in Wisconsin’s competitive general election environment compared to Hong. Crowley had previously exited the race but reentered on July 18. Critics of Crowley’s reentry suggest it reflects establishment efforts to block Hong’s candidacy, though Crowley has rejected characterizations of himself as an establishment figure.
Hong’s campaign has faced scrutiny regarding past statements, including a tweet about canceling Thanksgiving and previous positions on police funding. Republicans, including Donald Trump, have amplified criticism of her record as the race has attracted national attention. A Marquette University Law School survey conducted in late July showed Hong leading, though a substantial portion of Democratic primary voters remained undecided at that time.
The race includes four candidates: Hong, Crowley, state Senator Kelda Roys, and former state administration department head Joel Brennan. The field has shifted multiple times, with previous contender Sara Rodriguez withdrawing following campaign finance irregularities, and Mandela Barnes, the 2022 Democratic Senate nominee, dropping out on July 31. Hong, a Madison-based chef and former restaurant owner elected to the state assembly in 2020, has campaigned on proposals including universal childcare, free school meals, and a one-year moratorium on new datacenter construction.
The Democratic winner will face Republican Congressman Tom Tiffany in the general election. Tiffany ran unopposed in his primary and voted against certifying the 2020 election results. Democrats view the gubernatorial race as consequential for state governance, particularly given their efforts to secure both legislative chambers alongside the governorship.
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