Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley secured a come-from-behind victory over state Representative Francesca Hong in Tuesday's Wisconsin gubernatorial primary. The Associated Press called the race for Crowley at 3:34 a.m. Wednesday, with him leading Hong, 39.8% to 39.4%.
Surveys prior to the Democratic contest had consistently shown Hong, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, with a double-digit lead. Crowley had initially dropped out of the race and endorsed another candidate before re-entering and gaining the backing of outgoing Gov. Tony Evers.
Hong, 37, had campaigned on increasing taxes for high earners. She was seen casting her ballot wearing black Air Jordan sneakers, which retail online for around $300. In recent weeks, Hong had faced scrutiny for past statements, including social media posts advocating for the abolition of police departments and suggesting the cancellation of Thanksgiving. She had also expressed anti-Valentine's Day sentiments.
"Police exist to uphold white supremacy. Defund then abolish. Reform can’t be an option," Hong posted on X (formerly Twitter) in October 2021. The previous year, she tweeted, "Cancel Thanksgiving. Should have done this in 1621," a post that has since been deleted.
Hong later walked back these statements. "I’ve cooked many great Thanksgiving dinners, and I’m not going to cancel Thanksgiving," she told CBS News before the primary.
Critics from both Republican and Democratic parties had raised concerns about Hong's past comments and policy proposals, such as substantial tax hikes on high earners, believing they would be detrimental in the general election. Ex-Obama adviser David Axelrod described her as "a font of zany liberal, faculty lounge exotica" on X. Hong responded by criticizing the "consultant class" for being "clueless" and keeping working-class individuals out of politics, stating she had spent more time in kitchens than faculty lounges.
Crowley told reporters that many people are "scared" and worried about the country moving in the direction of self-proclaimed socialism. He cited Hong's socialist affiliation as a cause for concern.
Gov. Evers had also criticized Hong in the days leading up to the primary, suggesting she spent too much time on social media and other issues. In an interview with Politico, Evers did not commit to backing Hong if she won, but he anticipated Crowley's victory.
Hong, a former chef and part-time bartender, had gained momentum in the race after former Wisconsin lieutenant governor Mandela Barnes, who had initially led the polls, withdrew late last month. Barnes exited the race following reports of allegations concerning his behavior toward women, which he denied.