Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley has won the Democratic primary for Wisconsin governor, narrowly defeating democratic socialist state lawmaker Francesca Hong, NBC News projects. Crowley secured 39.8% of the vote compared to Hong's 39.4%, with 98% of expected votes tallied.

Crowley, 40, has served as Milwaukee County executive since 2020 and previously represented an urban Milwaukee district in the state Assembly. His campaign and allied outside groups spent $4 million on ads during the primary, significantly more than his Democratic rivals, according to AdImpact.

Hong, a state lawmaker from Madison, had led in the polls late in the race but faced increased scrutiny over her past controversial positions and concerns about her viability in the general election. Her loss is seen as a setback for progressives, who have otherwise found success in other high-profile primaries nationwide this year against establishment-backed candidates.

The primary victory for Crowley marks a dramatic turnaround, as he had briefly dropped out of the race about a month ago before re-entering with the backing of outgoing Democratic Governor Tony Evers.

Crowley will face Republican Tom Tiffany, who is supported by former President Donald Trump, in the general election this fall. The winner of the Crowley-Tiffany contest will hold the governorship during the 2028 presidential election.

Sources