August Legislative Update

Wisconsin Primary Recap

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley narrowly won the Democratic gubernatorial primary, defeating state Rep. Francesca Hong by roughly 3,000 votes—a 0.4 percent margin. Crowley’s victory followed a turbulent month in which he temporarily suspended his campaign, endorsed Lt. Governor Sara Rodriguez and then re-entered the race after Rodriguez abruptly withdrew. Crowley will now face Republican Congressman Tom Tiffany in November.

The gubernatorial race will help shape the environment for WPRA’s priorities next session, including reauthorization of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, afterschool funding, park district allowance and other policies affecting local governments. Crowley and Tiffany are both familiar with state government: Crowley previously served as a legislative staffer and legislator before being elected as Milwaukee County Executive, while Tiffany served nearly a decade in the Wisconsin Legislature before being elected to Congress.

Control of the Wisconsin Legislature will also be important. Republicans currently hold an 18–15 majority in the Senate, with four competitive districts expected to determine control of the chamber: Districts 5, 17, 21 and 31.

Republicans control the Assembly 54–45. For Democrats to win a slim majority, they would need to protect competitive seats in Assembly District 89 (Green Bay/Ashwaubenon) and Assembly District 94 (La Crosse) while picking up at least five additional districts.

The outcome of these legislative races—along with the governor’s race—will determine the political landscape in which WPRA advances its priorities during the 2027–28 session.