MIDTERM ELECTIONS: Insights into the Governors Race
Republican gubernatorial candidate Tom Tiffany spoke with Cheryl Casone on ‘Mornings with Maria’ to outline his strategy for the upcoming midterm. He plans to combat Democrat David Crowley by emphasizing economic relief, vowing to reduce property taxes and utility bills. Tiffany believes it’s essential to restore sensible leadership in Madison to help residents keep more of their earnings.
In a lively debate on Wednesday night, Tiffany and Crowley engaged in discussions about abortion, taxes, immigration, and the expanding data center industry in Wisconsin. As they compete for the position that will follow Democratic Governor Tony Evers, both candidates presented contrasting visions for the state’s future.
This debate, hosted by WISN, comes just days before the election and reflects a close race. A poll from Marquette Law School in September had Crowley slightly leading Tiffany 49% to 46%, a margin that falls within the poll’s margin of error. RealClearPolitics currently categorizes the race as a toss-up.
Key Debate Moments
1. **Tiffany References 20-Week Abortion Limit While Crowley Avoids Specifics**
Tiffany highlighted Wisconsin’s existing 20-week abortion restriction when asked if he would back a six-week ban, a position he has promoted in the past as a legislator. “I supported a five-month bill when I served in the state Senate. As governor, I will uphold that law,” he stated. He also aimed to alleviate concerns among women voters by affirming, “You won’t have to hold your breath when I’m governor.” In contrast, Crowley sidestepped naming a specific gestational limit and emphasized that abortion discussions should take place between a doctor and patient.
2. **Tiffany’s Commitment to Tax Cuts with Surplus**
On the topic of Wisconsin’s projected $3 billion budget surplus, Tiffany is adamant about returning the entire amount to taxpayers via permanent tax cuts, asserting, “They’ve overpaid into the state.” His plan includes a 10% tax cut for middle-income families. Crowley argued for using the surplus to alleviate costs for families and invest in public services such as education and healthcare, claiming Tiffany’s approach might undermine necessary state funding.
3. **Divergence on Immigration Enforcement**
Tiffany committed to requiring local sheriffs to respect federal immigration detainers, setting up a clear divide with Crowley. Tiffany insisted on coordination among local, county, and federal law enforcement, particularly for immigrants with criminal records. Crowley, while agreeing that those who commit crimes should face deportation, called for limitations on ICE’s actions in Wisconsin to protect civil rights.
4. **Debate over Data Center Development**
The candidates also tackled the issue of Wisconsin’s booming data center sector. Both opposed taxpayer subsidies for such developments. Tiffany laid out potential conditions for data center growth under his governance, including curbing utility rate hikes and ensuring local governance. He questioned why wealthy companies would need public financial support. Crowley, meanwhile, emphasized not forcing communities to accept unwanted data centers and advocated for a delay in such developments pending environmental reviews.
5. **Crowley Addresses Democratic Socialism Links**
Questions arose regarding Crowley’s alignment with more leftist elements of the Democratic Party, especially after a close primary win over a democratic socialist candidate. He supported initiatives such as expanding BadgerCare and public education funding, yet when asked about the Democratic Socialists of America’s platform, Crowley admitted to being unfamiliar with it. Tiffany seized on this, recalling Crowley’s earlier statements suggesting little distinction between himself and the more left-leaning primary candidate.
