Key Takeaways from Wisconsin’s Democratic Gubernatorial Debate

The five Democratic candidates for Wisconsin governor largely avoided attacking one another during their sole debate on Tuesday night. This restraint comes as the contests enter their final stages and early voting has begun ahead of the crucial August 11 primary. Many Democratic voters remain undecided, and no candidate challenged polling front-runner Francesca Hong, despite concerns about her potential in the general election.

The debate’s sole tense exchange occurred between former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. Barnes criticized Crowley for rejoining the race with Gov. Tony Evers’ endorsement after Sara Rodriguez’s withdrawal. Barnes remarked, “The county executive had his campaign resurrected by special interests in a dark room.” In response, though indirectly, Crowley highlighted his background, saying, “I was born into struggle; I’m not here to protect the establishment.”

Other candidates, including state Sen. Kelda Roys and Joel Brennan, the former secretary of the Department of Administration, expressed consensus on numerous issues. These included lowering property taxes, modifying a school voucher program, and imposing taxes on individuals earning over one million dollars annually.

Hong’s association with the Democratic Socialists of America did not become a sticking point, although some Democrats feared her views might be too extreme to defeat likely Republican nominee Rep. Tom Tiffany in November. Hong has faced criticism during the campaign for advocating police defunding and prison abolition. Asked about such positions in the debate, Hong clarified her stance, emphasizing, “I do not support the full platform of the national DSA, and I am not endorsed by DSA national.” She advocated for stronger public education funding and emphasized taxing the wealthy and investing in childcare and housing.

Regarding concerns that wealthy residents might leave Wisconsin due to higher taxes, Hong expressed optimism that her policies would enhance their lives, ensuring they could “live, work, and thrive here.” During a segment on the police shooting in Madison, which induced protests, Hong shifted from her initial stance. When questioned about signing a budget that cut police funding, she replied, “No.” She stressed her serious commitment to public safety, stating, “The governor cannot defund police, and I’m not here to govern by slogan.”

Barnes shared that sentiment, expressing deep disturbance at the incident’s imagery and his stance against reducing police funding. Crowley also emphasized the necessity of transparency, while reinforcing that defunding police was not on the table.

Promoting themselves, Barnes reminded the electorate of his statewide experience, having narrowly lost the 2022 Senate race. Crowley distinguished himself, noting his experience managing local government operations. Addressing a social media controversy, Crowley reaffirmed his commitment to delivering results for Wisconsinites, highlighting endorsements from Gov. Evers and various labor unions.