politics

In upset, moderate David Crowley defeats democratic socialist Francesca Hong in Wisconsin gubernatorial primary

Updated on: August 12, 2026 / 10:29 AM EDT / CBS News

In upset, moderate David Crowley defeats democratic socialist Francesca Hong in Wisconsin gubernatorial primary

TL;DR

  • David Crowley, a moderate Democrat, has won the Wisconsin gubernatorial primary, defeating democratic socialist Francesca Hong.
  • Crowley's victory was considered an upset, as Hong was widely viewed as the frontrunner.
  • Crowley had previously suspended his campaign but returned with the support of current Democratic Gov. Tony Evers.
  • Hong faced negative press due to her past social media posts, which included calls to defund the police and abolish ICE.
  • Crowley will face Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany in the general election.
  • This win reverses a trend of progressive wins in recent Democratic primaries in other states.
  • The race for Wisconsin governor is significant as Gov. Evers is not running for reelection, and the state is closely divided politically.