David Crowley Returns to Wisconsin Democratic Primary With Evers’ Support

Two weeks after halting his Wisconsin governor bid, David Crowley rejoined the state’s Democratic primary. Crowley, the Milwaukee County executive, gained last-minute support from outgoing Gov. Tony Evers. This move aims to boost the party’s position for the November elections.

Evers initially refrained from endorsing any candidate but changed course to support Crowley. His backing revives Crowley’s campaign in a state known for tight election outcomes. Attracting moderate and independent voters is vital.

The Democratic primary remains turbulent, threatening the party’s fall prospects. This follows Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez’s withdrawal due to a campaign finance issue.

Democrats aim to control Wisconsin’s state government entirely for the first time since 2010. Success here holds national significance and may influence presidential campaigns.

Crowley Relaunches Campaign

Crowley relaunched his campaign in Milwaukee on Saturday. He emphasized the importance of a broad coalition and his skills in bridging partisan gaps. Evers’ endorsement, he noted, shows trust in his leadership and ability to win.

Evers was in Africa during the event but expressed full support for Crowley online. He praised Crowley’s executive skills in job creation and budgeting.

Crowley, 40, is back in a challenging primary for Wisconsin’s governorship. Last Friday, Rodriguez exited the race after a financial discrepancy in her campaign.

Primary Election Approaches

As the August 11 primary nears, Democrats aim to maintain the governorship and seek legislative majority control. The primary follows democratic socialist wins in cities like New York City, Washington, D.C., and Denver.

Francesca Hong represents a leftward shift in these elections. As a former dishwasher and cook, her campaign tests voter leanings in the midterms.

If elected, Crowley would be Wisconsin’s first Black governor. He previously stepped back to support Rodriguez but now challenges Hong, former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, state Sen. Kelda Roys, and Joel Brennan, a former Evers aide.

Aggressive Campaign Strategy

Crowley told The Associated Press his campaign will be more aggressive, fueled by Evers’ support and a reinvigorated volunteer base. He believes a winning path exists for the August 11 primary and beyond.

“We can not only get over the hump in winning on the Aug. 11 primary, but then we’ll be able to really focus on how we can make sure that Tom Tiffany doesn’t bring an extreme MAGA agenda to the state of Wisconsin,” Crowley said.

Democrats face challenges in turbulent primaries this midterm cycle. California’s race to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom became chaotic, with Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell exiting amid allegations.

Crowley’s Background and Ambitions

In his campaign’s initial phase, Crowley spotlighted his rise from homelessness to a community organizer and state Assembly member at age 30. He became Milwaukee County’s executive in 2020, the first Black person and youngest to hold the post.

The primary winner faces Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany, who has minimal primary competition. Tiffany labeled Crowley ineffective as a county executive and criticized Democrats’ chances.

In an email statement, the Republican Governors Association likened the Democrats’ internal strife to a chaotic spectacle.