Politics
Hong’s post-primary tour puts pressure on Crowley to show shared priorities
Francesca Hong is campaigning across Wisconsin for Democratic candidates after narrowly losing the August gubernatorial primary to David Crowley. Crowley says he is open to campaigning with anyone focused on moving the state forward, but did not commit to appearing with Hong.
MILWAUKEE — Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial nominee David Crowley says he is willing to campaign with Francesca Hong, his former primary rival, as she begins a statewide tour ahead of the November election.
Hong, a democratic socialist who lost the August primary to Crowley by fewer than 4,000 votes, described the tour in a Sunday interview on “UPFRONT.” She said she wants Crowley to make clear that he shares her supporters’ priorities, including fighting for working-class families.
“This is me campaigning for Democrats,” Hong said.
Crowley responded Tuesday during a stop in Milwaukee, saying his campaign has been traveling around Wisconsin and shares the goal of reducing costs for working families. He did not say whether Hong would join him at campaign events.
“I’m willing to campaign with anybody who wants to focus on moving this state forward,” Crowley said.
Hong’s outreach could help Democrats engage voters who supported her in a closely contested primary, though the two candidates have not announced a joint appearance. Crowley is running against Republican Tom Tiffany. The candidates are scheduled to debate live at 7 p.m. Oct. 21.