Wisconsin business leaders claim they avoided higher taxes after socialist candidate loses primary
Business group Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce said the state dodged a tax-increase bullet when Francesca Hong lost the Democratic gubernatorial primary to David Crowley.
Kurt Bauer, the chief executive of Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, told reporters that Wisconsin businesses have “dodged a bullet” after Francesca Hong, a self-identified democratic socialist, failed to win the Democratic primary for governor. Hong, a state representative from Madison and DSA member, was edged out by Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, who received endorsement from retiring Governor Tony Evers.
Bauer cited the WMC’s Winter 2026 survey, which found 71% of firms saw higher property taxes and only a tiny fraction reported tax relief. Crowley’s campaign emphasized his success in drawing major corporations, securing federal grants, and supporting local infrastructure projects, while Republican Tom Tiffany pledged to cut taxes and eliminate regulatory burdens. The primary outcome is seen as a test of whether progressive or establishment Democrats will shape the November gubernatorial race in the swing state.
Why it matters
The primary result signals how Wisconsin’s business community views tax policy and progressive candidates ahead of a pivotal gubernatorial election.
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