Meet the Democrat who narrowly defeated socialist rival in key swing-state battle over the partys future
Wisconsin Democrats narrowly chose Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley over state Rep.Francesca Hong in the crucial swing state, handing the gubernatorial nomination to a more moderate candidate in a key test of socialism’s growing influence within the Democratic Party.Despite holding double-digit leads in most polls ahead of Election Day, Hong, a Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) member with a history of controversial statements, ultimately fell short after retiring Democratic Gov.
Tony Evers and other party heavyweights rallied behind Crowley, calling him "the future of the party."Crowley will face Republican Rep.Tom Tiffany, a House Freedom Caucus member who is backed by President Donald Trump, in a November showdown expected to draw national attention.But as Crowley pivots to the general election after emerging as the Democratic establishment’s choice over Hong and the party’s progressive wing, questions remain over just how moderate Crowley is.DEMOCRAT ESTABLISHMENT STRIKES BACK AS SOCIALIST CANDIDATE DOWNED IN BATTLEGROUND PRIMARYDemocratic Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate David Crowley greets supporters at a campaign rally on Aug.
10, 2026, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.Crowley is polling second behind front-runner Francesca Hong in the Democratic primary, which takes place tomorrow.
(Scott Olson/Getty Images)Crowley appeared alongside Hong at a Wisconsin Democrats unity breakfast in Middleton on Wednesday before kicking off a five-day, 17-stop statewide tour with lieutenant governor nominee Sarah Godlewski.Speaking to reporters after the breakfast, Crowley thanked Hong for her "work" and "leadership" while vowing to win over her supporters and unite the party."We may not agree on everything, but it doesn't mean that we can't come to the negotiating table and figure out how we bring everybody under this big tent," he said.
"The Democrats, we are a big tent.We should not be focusing on kicking people from under, saying that they don't belong wi...