MADISON, Wis. (AP) — David Crowley, the Milwaukee County Executive, has officially launched his candidacy for the position of Wisconsin governor, citing his unique background and experience as key qualifications for the role. Crowley, who emerged from poverty in one of the state's most disadvantaged neighborhoods, aims to become Wisconsin's first Black governor as he competes in the high-stakes race to succeed Tony Evers, who will not seek re-election after two terms.
The Democratic primary is set for August 2026, and Crowley joins another prominent candidate, Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, in what is shaping up to be a competitive and historic election season. Both candidates aspire to break new ground in Wisconsin's political landscape: Crowley seeks to make history as the inaugural Black governor, while Rodriguez aims to become the first woman elected to the office. As of now, there are two declared Republican candidates, with more anticipated from both parties.
Crowley, 39, articulated his vision in an interview, pledging to be a “governor for all of us.” His campaign will focus on critical issues such as reducing costs for families, making health care and housing more affordable, and ensuring public schools receive the funding they need. He emphasized his understanding of the challenges faced by many families, stating, “It’s really about showing up for people, and that’s what people want.”
Raised in Milwaukee's 53206 ZIP code, Crowley is familiar with the hardships that come with poverty. A 2013 study by the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee indicated that this area had the highest incarceration rates in the nation, with many men having experienced time in prison. This ZIP code is also known for its significant poverty levels and poor healthcare. Crowley’s own story of overcoming homelessness, becoming a community organizer, and eventually being elected to the state Assembly at age 30 showcases his dedication to improving the lives of those in similar circumstances.
In addition to his political accomplishments, Crowley recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, completing his college degree while serving as the county executive. He stated, “My upbringing has really given me the guiding principles of how I govern. That’s why I stress being the governor for all of us. I know what it's like to struggle. I know what it's like to be poor.”
Both Crowley and Rodriguez have made early critiques of former President Donald Trump’s influence on the political landscape in Wisconsin. In his campaign launch video, Crowley pointed out the “chaos and cruelty” associated with Trump, warning that “the Wisconsin that we cherish will perish unless we unite and fight back.” Rodriguez labeled Trump a “maniac” in her own launch video, demonstrating the candidates' intent to draw a clear contrast with Republican ideologies.
Democrats are looking to retain the governor's office while also aiming to reclaim majority control of the state Legislature, which has been dominated by Republicans since 2011. Crowley represents a younger generation of Democratic candidates navigating this critical transition, following Evers, who is 73. Rodriguez is 50, while potential candidates like state Sen. Kelda Roys (46) and former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes (38) are also in the mix, alongside Attorney General Josh Kaul (44), who is considering a run.
On the Republican side, the field currently includes two announced candidates: Josh Schoemann, 43, the Washington County Executive, and 56-year-old businessman Bill Berrien from suburban Milwaukee. Other Republicans, such as U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany and state Senate President Mary Felzkowski, are rumored to be weighing their options, with Tiffany expected to make an announcement soon regarding his candidacy.
This upcoming election cycle is poised to be a significant chapter in Wisconsin's political history as both parties prepare for what promises to be a closely watched and highly competitive governor's race in 2026.
