Kamala Harris Campaigns for David Crowley in Wisconsin

Former Vice President Kamala Harris recently visited Wisconsin to support Democratic gubernatorial candidate David Crowley, signaling potential issues with his campaign’s ability to attract voters, according to his Republican rival, Rep. Tom Tiffany.

Harris’s arrival in Milwaukee came just eight days before the election, a critical time for Crowley’s campaign. Speaking to supporters at the Pfister Hotel, she acknowledged the emotional toll many have been feeling lately, saying, “For the last year and a half, many of us have experienced a wide range of emotions: anger, sadness, disappointment… all sorts.” She expressed empathy for those who feel powerless, mentioning, “I know how much pain people are in, and the fear this creates in many communities.”

Tiffany contended that Harris’s visit indicated Crowley is struggling to energize the Democratic base, amidst broader sentiments of political fatigue caused by ongoing polarization and relentless campaigning. “This is clearly a move that says they’re having trouble getting their base to vote,” Tiffany stated. “David Crowley hasn’t excited the base.”

Critics have suggested that Crowley was selected by Democratic leaders, including Governor Tony Evers, as a safer option compared to more progressive candidates. This selection process mirrors challenges Harris faced during her own presidential campaign, highlighting ongoing frustrations within the party.

“It seems like the Democrats are once again pulling someone off the bench,” Tiffany remarked. “They didn’t allow democracy to work in their own party, and people are quite frustrated with that.” He claimed that this situation reflects a broader issue as they attempt to galvanize support.

Tiffany has presented himself as a candidate focused on practical solutions while criticizing Crowley, who currently serves as Milwaukee County executive, regarding economic conditions in the area. In his view, Crowley is unlikely to cut taxes or costs for residents, suggesting instead that he would raise them based on past behavior.

In response, Crowley’s campaign countered Tiffany’s claims, emphasizing his plans to alleviate financial burdens for families struggling due to rising costs, which they attribute to Tiffany and the policies of the Trump administration. “David has consistently worked to lower costs as county executive, including balancing budgets and reducing property taxes every year,” said a spokesperson. They further criticized Tiffany for prioritizing the interests of wealthy donors over working-class Wisconsinites.