In a surprising development in Wisconsin’s gubernatorial race, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley has re-entered the contest, just weeks before the Democratic primary. This strategic move aims to shift the dynamics of the race, which has seen a divide between traditional Democrats and progressives.
Governor Tony Evers has thrown his support behind Crowley, marking a significant endorsement after previously staying neutral. This endorsement highlights the ongoing split in the Democratic Party, particularly between traditional factions and the progressive wing represented by Madison Rep. Francesca Hong.
The Republican Governors Association has been running a multi-million dollar ad campaign that appears to favor Hong, a move some Democrats see as a strategy to secure an easier opponent for Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany in the general election.
Crowley criticized these efforts at his campaign relaunch, stating, “Democrats cannot afford to head into this general election with a nominee who lacks the experience, who lacks the record, or the coalition necessary to win this race, especially with Republicans actively trying to hand us that exact outcome.” He emphasized the urgency of uniting the party to prevent a Republican victory in November.
Francesca Hong expressed her openness to Crowley’s re-entry, stating, “Competition is good for democracy, and voters deserve a substantive debate about the future of our state.” However, concerns linger among Democrats about the potential consequences of a divided primary field.
Former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, who has been a strong contender against Hong, criticized Crowley’s return as a potential spoiler move. Barnes’ campaign highlighted Crowley’s previous low polling numbers, stating, “With just 3 weeks until Election Day and after nearly 70,000 people have voted, this Hail Mary serves no purpose other than playing spoiler and handing our state to Trump’s handpicked candidate in Tom Tiffany.”
Evers’ Endorsement: A Game-Changer?
Governor Evers’ endorsement of Crowley has added a new dimension to the race. Previously, Evers refrained from endorsing any candidate, citing the diverse field. However, he now calls for unity behind Crowley to prevent a Republican win. “Wisconsin only knows one direction to go, and that’s Forward, and let’s unite to make sure David is our next governor so we can keep building the future our kids and grandkids deserve,” Evers stated in a social media post.
This endorsement comes after other Democratic candidates, such as former Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, have struggled financially, leading to her withdrawal from the race. Other candidates like Joel Brennan and Madison Sen. Kelda Roys continue to campaign, emphasizing their readiness to challenge Tiffany.
Meanwhile, Republicans are capitalizing on the Democratic turmoil. State GOP Chair Brian Schimming commented on the situation, saying, “for all the absurd antics among Wisconsin Democrats right now, there is an irrefutable, undeniable fact: it’s all about stopping #FrancescaHong. All. Of. it. Full stop.”
As the primary approaches, the spotlight remains on how Crowley’s late entry and Evers’ endorsement will influence voter decisions in a tightly contested race.
