Wisconsin Governor’s Race Remains Tight as Tiffany and Crowley Compete

A recent Marquette Law poll reveals the Wisconsin governor’s race is highly competitive between Republican Representative Tom Tiffany and Democratic Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. The poll shows Crowley with 49 percent of likely voters compared to Tiffany’s 46 percent, while 5 percent remain undecided. Among registered voters, Crowley holds 46 percent, Tiffany has 45 percent, and 9 percent are undecided. The margin of error for likely voters is 4.8 percent and 4.3 percent for registered voters.

Midterm elections typically assess the political landscape for the ruling party, historically leading to seat losses for the president’s party. Currently, Republicans hold a narrow majority in both the House and Senate. The Wisconsin gubernatorial seat, presently held by Democratic Governor Tony Evers, is up for grabs following his retirement announcement. Both parties aim for victory.

Crowley’s campaign manager, Garren Randolph, stated, “Despite substantial spending from Trump-aligned billionaires totaling nearly $10 million for Tiffany’s campaign, outside groups like Richard Uihlein’s super PAC, and the Koch network adding $15 million, Wisconsinites are choosing David Crowley for his strong advocacy.” The campaign remains cautious, noting that billionaire influences can still impact the election outcome.

In response, Tiffany criticized Crowley’s policies, highlighting tax hikes during Crowley’s tenure as Milwaukee County Executive and legislation requiring taxpayer funding for tampons in boys’ public school bathrooms. Tiffany pledged to return a $3 billion surplus and reduce taxes for working families.

Recent data contrasts with last month’s poll, showing a slight increase in Tiffany’s support among Republicans and independents, while Crowley’s support among Democrats and independents decreased. Tiffany’s favorability rating stands at 39 percent, whereas Crowley’s is 31 percent.

The poll indicates Trump’s approval rating has fallen to 38 percent, with his disapproval at 60 percent. Democrats aim to capitalize on declining approval ratings ahead of the midterm elections. Issues like economic concerns and immigration have contributed to fluctuating support for the president.

Conducted between September 16 and 23, 2026, the poll surveyed 843 registered voters and 692 likely voters in Wisconsin.

Tiffany has distanced himself from Trump on various topics like beef imports, renaming Lake Ontario, and data centers. He opposes fiscal subsidies for data centers and supports Wisconsin farmers facing tariff-waived beef imports.

Other polls present similar results, placing Crowley ahead by a few percentage points. A Platform Communications poll shows Crowley with 48 percent versus Tiffany’s 44 percent. An RMG Research poll notes Crowley at 46 percent and Tiffany at 43 percent. Both indicate a competitive race rated as a toss-up by The Cook Political Report.