Wisconsin Democrats are divided into two camps as they choose a gubernatorial candidate in the upcoming primary. On one side is progressive Francesca Hong, and on the other is Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, endorsed by Governor Tony Evers. This election is drawing national attention as a test of the strength of progressive forces, according to infohub.kz.
Sarah Miller, a software engineer from Madison, said she is voting for David Crowley in the primary. While acknowledging the divide between progressive and centrist Democrats, she emphasized that the main goal is to win in November. Miller called Hong a "very weak candidate" and described her popularity as "a mirage."
Crowley, relying on Evers' endorsement, hopes it will bring him additional votes. He said that progressive Abdul El-Sayed's victory in Michigan gives him hope. However, Crowley's path is not easy: he withdrew from the race on July 8 and re-entered 10 days later. During this time, several candidates dropped out, and votes already cast for them cannot be undone.
Francesca Hong has faced criticism over her past statements. She had previously called for defunding the police and canceling Thanksgiving. Now she has backtracked, saying she does not support abolishing the police. Republican opponent Tom Tiffany has criticized Hong's comments, accusing her of wanting to "destroy traditions."
Crowley rejects being called an "establishment" candidate, saying it is a slur, especially as an African American candidate. He hopes to become Wisconsin's first Black governor. Hong, meanwhile, is vying to become the state's first woman and first Asian American governor.
Hong's supporters dismiss concerns about her electability. Chris Vestin compares such concerns to the 2016 race between Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders, saying they are often rooted in racism and sexism.
Wisconsin Democrats are trying to hold onto the governor's office and flip both chambers of the Legislature to gain full control for the first time since 2010. Crowley's supporters are confident he will surge ahead in the final stretch.