- Early in-person voting began on July 28, 2026, in Wisconsin's primary election, which runs through August 9.
- On July 28, 2026, five Democratic candidates for Wisconsin governor participated in a debate hosted by WISN 12 at Marquette University.
- The debate covered key issues such as school funding, data centers, and police funding.
- Francesca Hong leads the Democratic primary race with a 29-point advantage, polling at 44% among likely voters.
Five Democratic candidates for Wisconsin governor participated in a debate on July 28, 2026, at Marquette University, just weeks before the Aug. 11 primary. The candidates included Francesca Hong, Mandela Barnes, David Crowley, Joel Brennan, and Kelda Roys.3478
In a recent poll, Francesca Hong leads with 44% of likely voters, significantly ahead of David Crowley at 15% and Mandela Barnes at 14%. The debate, moderated by WISN 12's Matt Smith and Gerron Jordan, covered critical issues such as police funding and data centers.
The candidates expressed their commitment to not defund the police, with all agreeing on the necessity of body cameras for law enforcement. Forty-five percent of Democratic primary voters remain undecided, indicating a competitive race as early voting commenced on July 28 and runs through Aug. 9.
Democrats aim to regain control of the governor's office and both legislative chambers, a feat not achieved since 2010. The debate highlighted the ideological divide within the party, with Hong representing the more liberal faction.
As the primary approaches, the candidates are vying for support in a state where inflation and the cost of living are pressing concerns for voters. Mordecai Lee, a political expert, noted that Wisconsin's divided electorate makes predictions challenging.
The general election is set for Nov. 3, with the Democratic primary shaping the future of Wisconsin's governance.
“Francesca Hong is currently leading the Democratic primary with 44% support among likely voters, compared to Mandela Barnes at 14% and David Crowley at 15%. The debate covered critical issues such as police funding and data centers, reflecting the candidates' positions as they vie for the nomination.”
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