Center-Left Establishment Triumphs in Wisconsin Democratic Gubernatorial Primary

The left-wing segment of the Democratic party in Wisconsin experienced a notable defeat on Tuesday. State Rep. Francesca Hong, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, lost the Democratic gubernatorial nomination to Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. The Associated Press confirmed Crowley’s victory.

This loss comes shortly after far-left candidate Abdul El-Sayed narrowly surpassed moderate Rep. Haley Stevens in Michigan’s Democratic Senate primary. With Wisconsin being a key swing state, the primary was closely monitored as a contest between the progressive wing and the party establishment.

Crowley, heavily endorsed by the outgoing Democratic Governor Tony Evers, will face Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany in the upcoming general election. Tiffany, a known hard-right House Freedom Caucus member, has support from former President Donald Trump. The race is seen as a prime opportunity for Republicans to gain control.

“A Hong primary victory could jeopardize Democratic control of the governor’s office,” Evers and Crowley warned during the campaign.

The gubernatorial race emerged after Tony Evers decided not to seek a third term, creating an open contest. For Wisconsin Democrats, it marked the first time in 16 years to select a nominee without an incumbent governor.

Hong, aged 37, is a former chef and single mother. Her platform included policies such as guaranteed paid leave, raising the minimum wage to $20, and pausing AI data center construction for a year. However, she faced criticism for past social media posts advocating for police defunding, which she has since retracted, stating her commitment to public safety.

Hong attracted national attention due to resurfaced posts, including criticism of Thanksgiving as a colonialist celebration. She later apologized, stating Thanksgiving is her “favorite holiday.” She stated she has “evolved” and “learned” from past experiences.

Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez and former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes exited the governor race earlier. Crowley, having suspended his campaign previously to support Rodriguez, re-entered the race with renewed vigor.

Concerns arose among moderate Democrats that Hong’s nomination could hinder down-ballot races, benefiting Tiffany in the general election. Republican super PACs invested heavily in Hong’s primary race, perceiving her as a weaker opponent.

In anticipation of the general election, Tiffany expressed his goal to halt the spread of socialism, should he face Hong in November.

Hong emphasized the democratic process, stating, “The election belongs to the voters.” She expressed confidence in engaging with voters up to Election Day to secure their support.