Crowley returns to governor's race in last-minute effort to win Democratic primary

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley rejoined the gubernatorial contest 24 days before the August primary, receiving an endorsement from Gov. Tony Evers, who had previously stayed neutral in the Democratic race. Crowley accused Republicans of attempting to boost progressive candidate Francesca Hong through a multi-million dollar ad campaign. He stated: "Democrats cannot afford to head into this general election with a nominee who lacks the experience" and pledged to unite the party against Republican Tom Tiffany. The governor reversed his earlier neutrality, writing on social media: "Wisconsin only knows one direction to go, and that's Forward, and let's unite to make sure David is our next governor." The democratic socialist candidate welcomed the competition, saying: "Competition is good for democracy, and voters deserve a substantive debate about the future of our state." Former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes criticized Crowley's move as a "Hail Mary," noting Crowley had polled at only 3% in previous Marquette surveys, suggesting his return could split anti-Hong votes.