Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist, recently lost the Democratic gubernatorial primary in Wisconsin, yet some of the progressive ideals that characterize the party’s left wing may linger beyond her campaign’s end.
The Milwaukee County executive, David Crowley, who emerged victorious over Hong by positioning himself as the more moderate option, has been involved in initiatives like racial-equity budgeting, developing the county’s equity office, and urging the state attorney general to take action against fossil fuel companies for environmental damages. Interestingly, he and Hong align on issues such as increasing taxes on the wealthy and striving for ambitious carbon neutrality.
Mark Bednar, a Republican consultant from Wisconsin, criticized Crowley’s leadership, calling it a disaster. He claimed that under Crowley’s management, residents faced their biggest property tax increase in 15 years, along with higher sales taxes. He described the funding for Crowley’s Green New Deal as a ‘scam’ targeting taxpayers, suggesting Wisconsinites might oppose Crowley’s policies across the state.
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In a recent campaign advertisement, Crowley highlighted his ability to deliver results and pursue practical bipartisan solutions. During the primary, he was dubbed a “mainstream Democratic alternative,” while CBS News labeled him a “moderate Democrat” following his primary win. Onlookers like Axios viewed his victory as a potential resurgence for the center-left wing of the Democratic Party.
However, even as he is seen as the moderate candidate, Crowley has shared important policy stances with Hong. He acknowledged this overlap and pointed out areas of agreement during his campaign, asserting that there are indeed many common goals. Both candidates advocated for higher taxes on millionaires, a $20 minimum wage, expanded union rights, and universal child care. Their climate objectives also show parallels, with Hong aiming for Wisconsin to become carbon-neutral by 2050, alongside Crowley’s commitment to reaching the same target for Milwaukee County’s operations.
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Additionally, Crowley’s approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) complicates his moderate depiction. His administration integrated a Racial Equity Budget Tool into the county’s budgeting process, which is described as a method for evaluating how budget choices impact communities of color. In previous budget addresses, he has pushed departments to consider racial equity when requesting additional funds.
According to the 2024 budget, Crowley identified racism as a public health crisis in Milwaukee County, emphasizing the need for tools that assess budget impacts on racial equity. His leadership also expanded the Office on African American Affairs to encompass broader issues, aiming for a more inclusive approach regarding various communities.
Climate policy has also been a central focus during Crowley’s time in office, highlighted by his signing of Milwaukee County’s Climate Action 2050 plan, which aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This aligns with Hong’s statewide climate agenda.
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Moreover, Crowley signed a resolution encouraging the state attorney general to pursue legal action against fossil fuel companies for environmental damage. He has expressed Milwaukee County’s commitment to the principles of the Paris Agreement, especially amidst significant changes in federal climate policies. However, Crowley’s campaign and the county’s press office did not respond to requests for comment on his record.
