Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has endorsed Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley in the state's Democratic gubernatorial primary, a move that reshapes the race just weeks before the August 11 primary election. Crowley, who had suspended his campaign earlier, reentered the race after Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez dropped out amid a campaign finance scandal.
Core Developments
Evers' endorsement of Crowley comes as the Democratic primary field undergoes significant shifts. Crowley, 40, had initially suspended his campaign to endorse Rodriguez but reentered the race after her departure. The endorsement reflects Evers' confidence in Crowley's ability to build a coalition and defeat Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany in the general election.
Context and Implications
The Democratic primary includes several candidates, including democratic socialist Francesca Hong, former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, state Sen. Kelda Roys, and Joel Brennan, a former top aide to Evers. Crowley's return to the race follows a series of developments that have turned the gubernatorial race inside out. His campaign confirmed that Evers plans to publicly announce his endorsement later in the day.
Stakes and Strategy
Crowley's campaign emphasized the importance of the election, stating that Democrats cannot afford to head into the general election with a nominee who lacks the experience or coalition necessary to win. The race is unfolding in one of the most closely divided swing states in the nation, with Wisconsin being carried by President Donald Trump by less than 1 percentage point in the 2024 presidential election.
Prediction Markets and Polling
Prediction markets currently have Hong as the favorite to become the Democratic nominee for Wisconsin governor. However, Crowley's endorsement by Evers could shift the dynamics of the race. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report has rated the governor’s race in Wisconsin as a toss-up, highlighting the competitive nature of the contest.
Reactions and Analysis
The shake-up in the race has sent Democratic strategists into a scramble, with some expressing concern about the potential impact of a democratic socialist nominee on the general election. Crowley's return to the race expands the already-splintered field of candidates, adding another layer of complexity to the primary.
Looking Ahead
The winner of the Democratic primary will face Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany in the general election. The race is expected to be highly competitive, with the outcome potentially influencing the balance of power in Wisconsin and the broader political landscape.