Progressive Politics in the Midwest: Crowley’s Upset and What It Means for Wisconsin’s Democrats

The Democratic primary for governor in Wisconsin has concluded with David Crowley emerging victorious over Francesca Hong. This outcome is significant not only because it pits two progressive candidates against each other but also highlights the ongoing tensions within the party between its moderate and liberal wings.

Crowley’s campaign focused on electability, a strategy that resonated with voters increasingly concerned about the party’s chances in November. His endorsement from outgoing Governor Tony Evers likely played a crucial role in Crowley’s success. Hong ran on a platform emphasizing progressive policies such as childcare for all and a moratorium on new datacenters.

The outcome of this primary has implications beyond Wisconsin’s borders, particularly within the Midwest where the progressive wing of the party is being tested. Abdul El-Sayed’s victory in Michigan’s Democratic Senate primary last week serves as an example. Minnesota voters are weighing their options in a US Senate primary between a moderate and a progressive candidate.

The progressive movement within the Democratic Party often appears to be a force to be reckoned with, especially in solidly blue areas of the country. However, Crowley’s victory suggests that there may be more nuance to this narrative than initially meets the eye. While Hong’s platform was certainly progressive, it also alienated some voters put off by her past statements on issues such as police defunding and Thanksgiving cancellation.

The Wisconsin governor’s race is shaping up to be a closely watched contest, with Republicans already attacking Hong over her previous positions. The outcome will likely have significant implications for the party’s chances in November, particularly if Crowley can tap into his endorsement from Evers and his own campaign messaging about electability.

This election cycle offers an opportunity to reassess the progressive movement within the Democratic Party. Some may view Crowley’s victory as a setback for progressive ideals, but it could also be seen as a pragmatic decision that prioritizes winning over ideology. As voters in other parts of the country continue to weigh their options, it remains to be seen whether Crowley’s approach will serve as a model for others or whether the party will continue to push for more progressive policies.

The Republican candidate, Tom Tiffany, who voted against certifying the 2020 election results, presents a stark contrast to Crowley and Hong. Their differing approaches highlight the fundamental tension between electability and ideology that has been at the heart of this primary season.

Wisconsin voters will head to the polls in November with high stakes for both parties. The outcome will not only determine the course of state politics but also serve as a harbinger for the direction of the Democratic Party nationwide. With Crowley’s victory marking a significant upset, Democrats would do well to take note of the implications and consider what this means for their chances in other parts of the country.

Crowley’s win is a reminder that electoral success often requires more than just policy positions. It demands an ability to connect with voters on a personal level, present oneself as a viable alternative to one’s opponents, and navigate the complex web of party politics. Whether Crowley can translate this success into a winning general election campaign remains to be seen, but for now, his victory serves as a timely reminder that in the world of politics, ideology is only half the battle.

In Wisconsin, voters are known to swing either way depending on the candidate or platform, and Crowley’s chances of success may yet prove to be a closely watched experiment.