MADISON, Wis. — State Rep. Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist, is the front-runner in Wisconsin's Democratic primary for governor, setting up a direct confrontation with the state party establishment. Voters head to the polls Tuesday to decide the nominee for the November general election.
Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, Hong's top opponent, secured the endorsement of outgoing Gov. Tony Evers on July 18—the same day Crowley reentered the race, just 10 days after dropping out.
Hong's campaign has gained traction through a populist message focused on voters' cost-of-living concerns, drawing support from Democrats seeking a break from the party's mainstream.
Her rise is a test for democratic socialists nationally. A Hong victory would signal a shift within Wisconsin's Democratic Party.
Republicans are watching closely. Presumptive GOP nominee Tom Tiffany views a general election matchup against Hong as the party's best shot at reclaiming the governor's office.
The Democratic establishment has actively worked to block Hong's nomination, backing Crowley and raising public doubts about her viability in a statewide race.
Hong has called to defund and abolish the police—a stance well to the left of most Democratic candidates that energizes her base while alarming party moderates.
Despite the party's opposition, Hong leads the four-way field. Her grassroots operation has built a dedicated voter base that is challenging the party's conventional power structure.
