Wisconsin voters faced a pivotal decision on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, in the Democratic primary for governor, with the possibility of nominating Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist state lawmaker, as the party’s candidate. Hong emerged as the frontrunner in a competitive four-way race to succeed incumbent Democratic Governor Tony Evers, who is not seeking re-election.

Evers endorsed David Crowley, Milwaukee county executive, who had briefly left the race before reentering on July 18. Crowley and Evers campaigned together in the two weeks leading up to the primary, emphasizing Crowley’s electability in a swing state like Wisconsin compared to Hong.

The race attracted national attention following progressive wins in other states, including Abdul El-Sayed’s recent victory in the Democratic primary for the US Senate in Michigan. While progressives and democratic socialists have seen success in solidly blue regions, midwestern primaries like Wisconsin’s have focused more on electability due to the competitive nature of statewide races.

Hong’s past statements, such as a tweet suggesting canceling Thanksgiving and her previous support for defunding the police, drew scrutiny from journalists and criticism from Republicans, notably former President Donald Trump.

The primary field included Hong, Crowley, state senator Kelda Roys, and former state administration department head Joel Brennan. Hong expressed confidence in her campaign, stating, “I got into this race because I know that we can win and that Wisconsinites are going to fight for one another and fight to be a part of the change, because they’re tired of people making decisions that don’t improve lives and they’re tired of the status quo.”

This primary serves as a significant test of anti-establishment sentiment within the Democratic electorate in Wisconsin, a key swing state in the United States.

Sources