In Wisconsin, on July 29, 2026, Mandela Barnes, the former lieutenant governor, announced his exit from the Democratic gubernatorial primary. His departure leaves state Representative Francesca Hong and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley as the leading candidates for the party's nomination. The Democratic primary has been marked by a divide between progressive and moderate factions, with Hong, a Democratic socialist, gaining traction in recent polls. Her rise has raised concerns among some party establishment members about her electability in a competitive state.
Barnes expressed pride in his campaign's achievements but acknowledged that it was clear who the nominee would be. He emphasized his commitment to defeating Republican Tom Tiffany and supporting Democratic candidates across the board. Following his announcement, both Hong and Crowley welcomed Barnes' supporters into their respective campaigns, indicating a potential shift in voter dynamics.
Recent polling data shows Hong leading with significant support among Democratic voters, with 38% favoring her, while Barnes and Crowley trailed at 16% and 7%, respectively. Another poll indicated that 43% of Barnes' supporters view Hong as their second choice, compared to only 10% for Crowley. This suggests that Hong may benefit from the consolidation of Barnes' supporters, potentially strengthening her position in the primary.
The Democratic establishment has struggled to unify behind a single candidate, which has inadvertently aided Hong's anti-establishment campaign. As the primary approaches, the dynamics between the candidates will be crucial in determining the party's chances in the upcoming gubernatorial election, especially in a state that has historically swung between parties in recent presidential elections.
