Wisconsin Democratic voters expressed concerns about electability as a primary factor in the defeat of state Rep. Francesca Hong in her bid for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination. Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley narrowly won the primary, which was seen as a key test of the party's progressive versus establishment wings.
Voters told Fox News Digital that while some were initially drawn to Hong, the Democratic Socialist of America member, they ultimately opted for Crowley due to fears she could not win in the general election. "I would’ve liked to have voted for her, but I wasn’t sure she would win, so I voted for Crowley," said Linda Pullman, a Madison resident. Another voter, Elise, a college student, expressed disappointment, stating, "That actually is sad. I did want her to win."
Crowley received the backing of retiring Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, who, along with others, warned that nominating Hong could jeopardize the party's control of the governor's mansion in November. Concerns were raised about Hong's past far-left positions, including statements about abolishing the U.S. Senate and canceling Thanksgiving, which were viewed as potential liabilities in Wisconsin, a swing state. "Evers endorsed her opponent. I think a lot of people got cold feet, worried about whether she could play up north, and they were just a little bit more centrist than people a bit to the left," commented Madison resident Jonathan Greenberg.
Crowley will now face Republican nominee Rep. Tom Tiffany, a member of the House Freedom Caucus, in the general election. This race is considered a significant flip opportunity for the Republican party.
Voters supporting Crowley also voiced apprehension about Hong's potential performance against Tiffany. "I thought he could beat Tiffany," said Joshua, a Crowley voter. Tim, another Crowley supporter, explained his decision: "Seeing Hong was not doing so well against Tom Tiffany — who I think would be very devastating to the state — [factory-set my decision]. Can a progressive ever win? Yeah. Do I think right now is the time? Not necessarily."
Past controversial statements by Hong, such as those regarding defunding the police, also contributed to voter unease. "Some of the things that she said ... even if she doesn't really believe it now, like defunding the police ... I don’t think [swing voters] will vote for that," said Natalie McFadden, a Crowley supporter, who contrasted Hong's appeal with Crowley's more moderate stance.
Even some who voted for Hong admitted to reservations about her electability. "I was definitely worried that some of the things she said in the past would come back to get her," shared Aaron, who cast his ballot for Hong despite his concerns.
Hong, a former chef and single mother, had garnered endorsements from national progressive figures like Reps. Ilhan Omar and Ro Khanna. Notably, Sen. Bernie Sanders did not endorse her campaign.