David Crowley wins Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial primary

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley has won the Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial primary, defeating front-runner and Democratic Socialist state Representative Francesca Hong in an upset victory. Crowley secured approximately 39.8 percent of the vote to Hong’s 39.4 percent.

Hong’s campaign faced significant challenges, including scrutiny over past social media comments regarding Thanksgiving and her progressive stances on issues such as defunding the police. Analysts noted that prominent progressives, including Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, did not endorse her, signaling a potential shift toward more moderate rhetoric within the party.

Following the primary, Crowley is set to face Republican Representative Tom Tiffany in the general election. Meanwhile, Crowley has faced criticism regarding his management of Milwaukee County, specifically concerning budget deficits and law enforcement staffing following recent unrest at the Wisconsin State Fair.