Tiffany vs. Crowley: The 2026 Wisconsin Gubernatorial Race Heats Up

Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany and Democratic Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley are the major party nominees for Wisconsin’s 2026 governor’s race. The primary concluded in August 2026, and the general election is slated for November 2026. Both campaigns focus on the state’s data-center policy, fundraising, and the role of former President Donald Trump in the Republican effort.

The Hill

Former President Trump issued a “Complete and Total” endorsement of Tiffany in January 2026, praising the congressman as someone who has “always been at my side.” Crowley, hand-picked by retiring Democratic Governor Tony Evers, secured the nomination after narrowly defeating progressive Francesca Hong in the primary. Evers has publicly backed Crowley.

The Hill

• Fundraising: At the end of July, Tiffany reported nearly $5 million in cash on hand, with contributions from billionaire Republicans Richard Uihlein, Elizabeth Uihlein, and Diane Hendricks. Crowley’s campaign claimed to have raised more than $1 million within 24 hours of his primary win.

Wisconsin’s general election ad war for governor has begun

• Data-center public opinion: A July poll found 76 % of Wisconsin respondents said the costs of data centers outweigh the benefits, up from 55 % the previous October.

‘Toxic Tom’ Tiffany accepted campaign contribution from data center lobbyist, voted for more AI infrastructure

• Trump approval: A The Economist/YouGov poll showed 33 % approval and 62 % disapproval of Trump’s handling of the presidency, a net rating of -25 points.

The Hill

• Campaign contributions: On June 3, Tiffany’s campaign received a $5,000 donation from lobbyist Robert Marchant, the sole registered lobbyist for the Wisconsin Data Center Coalition.

Wisconsin’s general election ad war for governor has begun

• Tom Tiffany: “I would end all subsidies for data centers in Wisconsin.” — Rep. Tom Tiffany

Tom Tiffany Reflects On 6 Years In Congress, Discusses Governor Campaign On DrydenWire Live

• David Crowley: “Communities should be able to make a decision whether or not they want a data center. It shouldn’t be steamrolled; it should be brought to the table.” — David Crowley

‘Toxic Tom’ Tiffany accepted campaign contribution from data center lobbyist, voted for more AI infrastructure

• Tiffany appeared on Newsmax’s “Wake-Up America” and later joined Ben Dryden for a live interview, discussing his congressional record and gubernatorial platform.

Tom Tiffany Reflects On 6 Years In Congress, Discusses Governor Campaign On DrydenWire Live

• Crowley held a rally at the Racine County Democratic Party office, reiterating his stance on data-center guardrails and local decision-making.

‘Toxic Tom’ Tiffany accepted campaign contribution from data center lobbyist, voted for more AI infrastructure

• No official comment from Trump or his representatives confirms whether he will actively campaign for Tiffany, and Tiffany’s own response offered no definitive commitment.

Tiffany avoids answer on Trump campaign support in Wisconsin governor race Tom Tiffany Reflects On 6 Years In Congress, Discusses Governor Campaign On DrydenWire Live ‘Toxic Tom’ Tiffany accepted campaign contribution from data center lobbyist, voted for more AI infrastructure The HillWisconsin’s general election ad war for governor has begun

• Public opinion on data centers shows a notable shift—from 55 % opposition in October to 76 % in July—without clear explanation of the drivers behind the change.

Politico