MADISON, Wis. — David Crowley won the Wisconsin Democratic primary for governor, setting up a November contest against Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany.
Crowley, the Milwaukee County executive, secured his party's nomination by defeating Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist, by less than 1 percent. Hong conceded, removing the possibility of a recount. Wisconsin election law would have required Hong's campaign to pay for a recount, as Crowley's margin exceeded 0.25 percent.
Crowley will now face Tiffany, who has the endorsement of President Donald Trump. Crowley aims to become Wisconsin's first Black governor, positioning himself as the candidate best equipped to win the general election in the battleground state.
Hong's campaign had sought to build on recent progressive victories, including Abdul El-Sayed's win in Michigan's U.S. Senate race last week. Her loss marks the movement's first major setback in a purple state.
Democratic Party leaders have expressed concern that progressive candidates, often carrying past stances like defunding the police, struggle to defeat Republicans — a dynamic leaders fear could jeopardize the party's ambitions to regain control of the U.S. Senate and House.
Crowley entered the gubernatorial race after securing the endorsement of Gov. Tony Evers, a reversal that reshaped a fractured primary. Evers praised Crowley's record as Milwaukee County executive, citing his work on job creation, reducing carbon emissions and delivering property tax cuts.
Crowley's campaign manager, Garren Randolph, said Crowley is focused on unity. "Now, David is focused on bringing people together, earning the support of Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and anyone who believes Wisconsin is at its best when we work together and deliver results," Randolph said.
Hong addressed supporters late Tuesday as results came in. "We have built something that will change politics forever," she said. "The work we have done will be remembered forever. I know we don't have the final results right now, but what I do know is we are ready to keep fighting."
Hong's campaign manager, Becky Coo said after the concession that she was "proud of the race we ran." Cooper added, "Our team campaigned clean, our souls are intact and we really made meaningful change for the progressive movement."
Hong's near-victory in a swing state points to voter discontent within the party over issues including military aid to Israel, campaign finance and immigration enforcement.
National progressive figures, including Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, did not endorse Hong in the primary. Crowley is expected to attend a unity event later Wednesday.
