Wisconsin Democrats’ governor primary is an all-out fight over electability
Francesca Hong says she can appeal to a wide coalition in November. Her detractors worry the democratic socialist will lose the crucial battleground race.
In Kenosha, Wisconsin, a fierce Democratic gubernatorial primary is unfolding, with progressive State Rep. Francesca Hong leading the pack. This race has become an all-out fight over electability as Hong, backed by a populist campaign addressing voter concerns over the cost of living, faces off against Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, the top challenger backed by outgoing Governor Tony Evers.
Both candidates are vying for a wide coalition against presumptive Republican nominee Tom Tiffany, a hard-right figure backed by President Donald Trump. Evers and Crowley have been touring the state, warning that voting for Hong could cost the governor's mansion to Tiffany in November. Hong, a 37-year-old former chef and single mother, has surged in a traditionally Republican state, where Donald Trump won by just a slim margin in 2024.
Despite facing scrutiny over controversial social media posts and a lack of television ads, Hong has maintained strong polling leads. However, her ideological stance and past remarks have raised concerns among some Democrats about her electability in a general election.
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