David Crowley, Milwaukee County Executive, has reignited his campaign for Wisconsin governor two weeks after initially exiting the race. Crowley announced this decisive move on Saturday with the pivotal endorsement from outgoing Governor Tony Evers, aiming to strengthen the Democratic Party’s prospects in November.
Governor Evers had originally chosen not to endorse any candidate in the race. However, he has now thrown his support behind Crowley, revitalizing his political bid in this critical swing state known for narrow election outcomes. Winning over moderate and independent voters is seen as crucial for success.
The Democratic primary has been tumultuous, endangering the party’s chances in the fall elections. This turmoil includes Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez’s withdrawal from her gubernatorial campaign following a campaign finance scandal. Democrats are targeting the November elections to gain full control of Wisconsin state government for the first time since 2010.
Winning this election will require building the broadest possible coalition.
At an event held in Milwaukee on Saturday, Crowley emphasized the importance of forging relationships across party lines. He highlighted that Evers’ endorsement reflects trust in his leadership capability and ability to secure victory.
Governor Evers did not attend Crowley’s event due to a trade visit to Africa but affirmed his comprehensive support for Crowley in a social media post. Evers praised Crowley’s leadership on critical issues like job creation and budgetary management.
“He’s not just a candidate who can win in November, but he’s the kind of person who cares about doing the job right,” Evers expressed. Crowley, aged 40, is entering a competitive primary race for Wisconsin’s open governor position, reshaped by Rodriguez’s departure amid financial mishaps.
With the primary election scheduled for August 11, Democrats aim to retain the governorship while also pursuing a majority in the state Legislature, a control Republicans have held since 2011.
Crowley joins other Democrats in this race, including Francesca Hong, Mandela Barnes, Kelda Roys, and Joel Brennan. Crowley initially exited the race to support Rodriguez, but he now returns to face strong competition.
In a Saturday interview, Crowley spoke to The Associated Press about his plan for “a much more aggressive campaign” in the primary’s concluding weeks, elevating his confidence with Evers’ support and a revitalized volunteer base. Crowley is optimistic about defeating Tom Tiffany and preventing the spread of an “extreme MAGA agenda in Wisconsin.”
Democrats have encountered obstacles this year in various primaries across the nation. The California race to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom became chaotic, featuring numerous candidates and the abrupt withdrawal of leading contender Eric Swalwell amid sexual assault allegations.
Crowley’s campaign emphasizes his personal journey from homelessness to community leadership and state Assembly election at age 30. He became Milwaukee County’s executive in 2020, breaking records as its first Black and youngest leader.
The Democratic primary winner will face Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany, who faces minimal primary opposition. Tiffany has criticized Crowley as ineffective in his county role, labeling Democrats’ efforts as a last resort.
In response, the Republican Governors Association remarked, “watching Wisconsin Democrats is like watching a clown car crash into a parked semitruck.”