Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has formally thrown his support behind Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley in the upcoming Democratic gubernatorial primary. This endorsement comes just a day after a significant shift in the race, marked by the withdrawal of another candidate, and only weeks ahead of the crucial primary election set for August 11.
In remarks prepared for a public event, Crowley expressed that Evers’ backing demonstrates confidence in his qualifications, stating, “I have the experience, the judgment, and the record to build the coalition we need, defeat Tom Tiffany, and lead effectively from the very first day in office.” Crowley, 40, aims to become Wisconsin’s first Black governor if elected.
This endorsement is notable as Crowley re-enters a competitive primary landscape that has dramatically changed with the exit of Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, who announced her decision to step back from the race amid a campaign finance scandal. Rodriguez had previously dismissed her campaign manager after discovering her funds were significantly lower than expected.
Crowley had initially suspended his own gubernatorial aspirations two weeks ago to support Rodriguez. Now, he faces a renewed challenge from various candidates, including democratic socialist Francesca Hong, former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, state Sen. Kelda Roys, and Joel Brennan, a former top aide to Evers.
Evers, who opted not to run for a third term, had previously stated he would remain neutral in the primary. His decision to endorse Crowley, bypassing both current and former lieutenant governors who have statewide experience, underscores the importance he places on Crowley’s potential to unite the party and win the general election.
Currently on a trade mission in Africa, Evers did not attend Crowley’s Saturday event where the endorsement was announced. This late endorsement comes after Evers had maintained a policy of refraining from endorsing candidates in primary contests during his governance.
In his initial campaign, Crowley emphasized his personal journey, sharing that his family once faced homelessness in Milwaukee. He rose to prominence as a community organizer and was elected to the state Assembly in 2016 at the young age of 30. Crowley continued his political ascent, becoming the youngest and first Black executive of Milwaukee County in 2020.
As the primary election approaches, Democrats are focused on maintaining the governor’s office while also strategizing to regain majority control of the state Legislature, which has been in Republican hands since 2011. The winner of the Democratic primary will advance to face Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany, who currently faces minimal opposition in his own primary.
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Associated Press reporter Scott Bauer in Madison, Wisconsin contributed to this report.
