Wisconsin businesses viewed the defeat of Democratic Socialist Francesca Hong in the recent gubernatorial primary as a significant relief, according to Kurt Bauer, CEO and president of Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC). Bauer stated that the state "dodged a bullet" by electing a more moderate candidate, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, over Hong.
"My flip answer would be to open up a history book and learn how socialism has failed everywhere it's been tried, and it would fail here in Wisconsin as well. So from that perspective, we've dodged a bullet in the state of Wisconsin," Bauer told Fox News Digital. He expressed concern that Crowley, while more moderate than Hong, might still represent a threat to the business community regarding taxes and healthcare costs.
The primary was seen as a test of the Democratic Party's direction in the battleground state, with Crowley ultimately winning a close contest against Hong, a state representative and member of the Democratic Socialists of America. Crowley was endorsed by the incumbent Democratic Governor Tony Evers, who had warned that nominating Hong could endanger Democratic control of the governor's mansion in November.
During the campaign, Hong's past statements, including calls to abolish the U.S. Senate and criticisms of Thanksgiving, became points of contention. Bauer noted that while Crowley aligns with Hong on some policy issues, his victory was perceived as a less damaging outcome for businesses.
A survey conducted by WMC in Winter 2026 indicated that 71% of Wisconsin business owners experienced an increase in property taxes on their commercial properties over the past year, with only 1% seeing a decrease. The survey also found that nearly half of respondents felt former President Donald Trump's tariffs negatively impacted their businesses. Bauer described Wisconsin employers' sentiment as "lukewarm," citing frustrations with high healthcare costs and difficulties in finding qualified employees, despite some optimism regarding hiring and the broader U.S. economy.
Crowley's campaign, in response to Bauer's comments, highlighted his record as Milwaukee County Executive, asserting that he has attracted businesses and created jobs. A spokesperson stated that Crowley would work across party lines to balance the budget and foster job growth, contrasting this with criticism of Republican nominee Tom Tiffany's support for Trump's tariffs and alleged tax issues.
Crowley's office pointed to his efforts in securing grants for local enterprises, negotiating legislation to retain the Milwaukee Brewers, and implementing programs like "Building Bridges" to assist small businesses. His tenure has been associated with significant economic impact in Milwaukee County's tourism sector and securing federal funding for infrastructure projects.
Despite Bauer's comments, WMC has not made formal endorsements but plans to educate its members on candidates' positions. Bauer expressed familiarity and support for Republican candidate Tom Tiffany, describing him as "very pro-business" and an "ally of the business community" who understands the need for a favorable business climate to attract investment.
Dane Leceski, owner of "Gents, Chaps, & Blokes," echoed Bauer's sentiment, believing Wisconsin "dodged a bullet" with Crowley's primary victory over Hong. Gregg McKarns, owner of Madison International Speedway, voiced concerns about rising property taxes, emphasizing the importance of policies that protect local venues.
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), through its political arm Driving Force Action, also endorsed Tiffany, citing his record and stated concerns about Hong's potential impact on Wisconsin's business economy. Tiffany, who will face Crowley in the general election, has emphasized his experience as a small business owner and his commitment to lowering taxes and reducing regulations to foster business investment in Wisconsin.