Centrist Democrat David Crowley Secures Wisconsin Primary Victory

By August 12, 2026 / CBS News

David Crowley, a moderate Democrat, triumphs in the Wisconsin governor’s primary, marking an upset against Francesca Hong. Despite Hong being a democratic socialist and initially seen as a leading contender, Crowley emerged victorious. He will compete against Republican Representative Tom Tiffany in November’s election.

Several challenges faced Crowley’s campaign, chiefly the brief suspension in July. Yet, his candidacy received essential support from Tony Evers, the outgoing two-term Democratic Governor of Wisconsin. Hong’s campaign experienced turbulence due to the resurfacing of contentious social media posts. This victory for Crowley interrupts the recent trend of progressive wins in states such as Michigan, New York, and Colorado.

David Crowley greeted supporters in Milwaukee at a rally on August 10, 2026. The governor’s mansion in Wisconsin holds significant political importance for both major parties. With President Trump clinching victory by a narrow margin in 2024, Wisconsin remains a critical battleground. Additionally, the state uniquely has one Democratic and one Republican Senator, heightening political stakes.

Joining the race were notable figures like Mandela Barnes, a former Lieutenant Governor and previous Senate candidate, Sara Rodriguez, another Lieutenant Governor, and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley alongside Francesca Hong, a legislator and former chef.

The dynamics shifted dramatically in July with David Crowley’s temporary withdrawal, redirecting support to Rodriguez, the establishment’s preferred candidate. However, days later, Rodriguez exited due to financial constraints. Barnes, initially successful in past statewide elections, suspended his bid amidst potential scandal involving alleged misconduct, though without formal accusations.

With the primary debate concluding, Crowley announced his reentry into the race based on misinterpreted data. On July 30, Barnes acknowledged Crowley’s potential nomination and suspended his campaign amidst controversies investigated by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

The final competition narrowed to Crowley and Hong, elevating the race’s profile nationally. Controversial social media remarks from Hong’s past attracted criticism and subsequently amended positions. These included calls for defunding law enforcement and abolishing government institutions, adding to the campaign tensions.

The primary set a pivotal contest for Wisconsin’s future, leading into the approaching November elections.