Primaries in Wisconsin, Minnesota showcase Democratic divide
Democratic primary elections in Wisconsin and Minnesota are highlighting a growing ideological divide between progressive and centrist candidates. Left-leaning figures like Francesca Hong are challenging traditional party establishment candidates in key swing states, testing the party's direction ahead of future election cycles.
Why it matters
The outcome of these primaries serves as a bellwether for the Democratic Party's internal struggle to balance grassroots progressive energy with the need to appeal to moderate voters in swing states.
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▶ Follow live updates on the Aug. 11 primary elections
The latest battle over the Democratic ideological divide this year shifts to the upper Midwest on Tuesday as nominating contests for governor in Wisconsin and U.S. senator in Minnesota pit left-wing candidates against more traditional ones.
In Wisconsin, state Rep. Francesca Hong , a self-described democratic socialist , is the front-runner for the party’s nomination for governor in a swing state where winning the governor’s mansion is central to Democrats’ hopes for 2028 and beyond. In Minnesota, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan is running for the nomination for an open Senate seat against centrist Democratic Rep. Angie Craig.
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