David Crowley pulls off major upset in Wisconsin governor primary

In Wisconsin, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley won the Democratic primary for governor, defeating Francesca Hong. In Minnesota, state House Speaker Lisa Demuth secured the Republican primary victory over Trump ally Mike Lindell, leading to a general election contest against Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar. Additionally, in South Carolina, appointed Senator Darline Graham faces a runoff against Representative Ralph Norman in the Republican Senate primary. These results reflect changing dynamics within both parties as they approach the general elections.

David Crowley pulls off major upset in Wisconsin governor primary
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Published Aug 12, 2026

Topic overview

Briefly

  • Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley won the Democratic primary for governor in Wisconsin, defeating Francesca Hong.
  • Lisa Demuth won the Republican primary for governor in Minnesota, setting up a matchup against Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar.
  • These primary results indicate shifting voter sentiments and potential implications for the upcoming general elections.

What happened

In Wisconsin, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley achieved a significant victory in the Democratic primary for governor, defeating democratic socialist Francesca Hong. This unexpected outcome was projected by NBC News and marks a pivotal moment in the state's political landscape. Crowley's win is seen as a major upset, particularly given the support Hong received from progressive factions within the party. The primary results indicate a shift in voter sentiment and could have implications for the upcoming general election.

Meanwhile, in Minnesota, state House Speaker Lisa Demuth emerged victorious in the Republican primary for governor, overcoming Trump ally Mike Lindell. This sets the stage for a general election contest against Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar. Demuth's win is notable as it reflects a potential rejection of Trump-endorsed candidates among GOP voters, especially considering Lindell's previous lead in polling prior to the election.

In South Carolina, appointed Senator Darline Graham was forced into a Republican Senate primary runoff against Representative Ralph Norman. This development raises questions about the influence of Trump's endorsement, as Graham was initially supported by the former president. The runoff will determine who will represent the GOP in the upcoming election, and it highlights the ongoing divisions within the party.

Overall, these primary results from Wisconsin and Minnesota, along with the developments in South Carolina, illustrate the evolving dynamics within the Democratic and Republican parties as they prepare for the general elections. The outcomes suggest a potential shift in voter preferences and party alignments, which could significantly impact the political landscape in these states.

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Updated Aug 12, 2026

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