Crowley’s Comeback: A Coffee-Shop Democrat Finds Success

The Democratic primary in Wisconsin has handed David Crowley a surprise victory over Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist who had been leading in the polls just weeks ago. On its surface, this election appears to be another tale of an establishment candidate outperforming a progressive darling. However, closer examination reveals a more nuanced story about voter preferences, campaign strategy, and the ongoing relevance of moderation in Democratic politics.

Crowley’s path to victory was far from straightforward. Just last month, he was polling in single digits according to Marquette University Law School’s polls. His re-entry into the race, backed by outgoing Gov. Tony Evers, and a subsequent $4 million ad blitz helped turn things around. Crowley’s campaign spent significantly more on ads than any of his Democratic rivals, with some estimates putting his total ad spend at over four times that of Hong.

This spending paid off in the end, as Crowley took 39.8% of the primary vote compared to Hong’s 39.4%. However, what does this mean for the broader party? The fact that Crowley won despite his own controversies – including a years-old social media account featuring incendiary posts about women and race – suggests that voters are willing to overlook past transgressions if they perceive the candidate as electable.

Electability is a loaded term. Some see it as code for “more conservative” or “less progressive.” But in this case, Crowley’s victory may simply reflect a desire among Wisconsin Democrats to win in November against the Republican nominee, Rep. Tom Tiffany. According to voter Ali Plummer, who split her vote with Shawn Bass (Hong supporter), Crowley was chosen because of his perceived electability: “I am a risk-averse person, and I really was reading a lot about who has the chances to beat Tom Tiffany in the larger election.”

This is not to say that Hong’s loss is solely due to voter concerns about her progressive bona fides. Her campaign did attempt to walk back some of her past calls for defunding the police and abolishing the Senate. Additionally, she didn’t receive endorsements from leading democratic socialist voices like Sen. Bernie Sanders or Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

As Wisconsin Democrats look ahead to November, they’ll be watching Crowley’s campaign closely for signs of how he plans to appeal to moderates and independents. Will his approach be more about tacking left on some issues, as Hong attempted to do? Or will he emphasize his experience as Milwaukee County executive and his ability to get things done in a divided government?

One thing is certain: Crowley’s victory marks the end of an unpredictable primary season that saw several candidates drop out or re-enter the fray. The drama may be over for now, but the real story is only just beginning – as voters, pundits, and politicians alike try to make sense of what this election means for Wisconsin Democrats and the national party.

The Establishment Strikes Back

Crowley’s victory can be seen as a rejection of progressive politics in favor of more traditional Democratic values. However, it’s also possible that this election simply reflects the complexities of voter preferences in a state like Wisconsin, where moderate candidates often do well in primaries before going on to lose in general elections.

The fact remains that Crowley’s campaign was heavily backed by Evers and other establishment Democrats. This raises questions about the role of party machinery in shaping primary outcomes – and whether this type of support is more effective than grassroots organizing or small-dollar fundraising.

The Democratic Party at a Crossroads

Wisconsin Democrats will be grappling with fundamental questions about their party’s identity and direction as they look ahead to November. Crowley’s victory will likely fuel debate about the importance of moderation versus progressivism in shaping the party’s agenda.

The implications for national politics are also worth considering: Will Crowley’s success or failure serve as a model for other Democratic candidates looking to appeal to moderates and independents in swing states?

The Road Ahead

As Wisconsin voters move into the general election, they’ll face a stark choice between Crowley and Tiffany. While both candidates have their own controversies and baggage, it’s clear that Crowley faces significant challenges in winning over independents and moderates.

Ultimately, this election is about more than just who holds power in Madison – or even what policy priorities take center stage. It’s about the direction of the Democratic Party itself: will they continue to push for progressive change, or return to a more moderate path?