Wisconsin Governor Race Stays Tied as Crowley and Tiffany Clash on Surplus, Taxes, and 2020 Election

Key points

• The debate, held at Marquette University Law School, was the only one before the November 3 election.
• Crowley supports using the $3 billion surplus for schools, property tax relief, and healthcare, while Tiffany wants to return it through long-term tax cuts.
• Crowley criticized Tiffany for supporting federal tax cuts that reduce healthcare funding, while Tiffany accused Crowley of being a 'socialist' and supporting higher taxes.
• Tiffany defended his 2020 election challenges by citing concerns over private funding in election administration, while Crowley condemned his actions as an attempt to discard valid votes.
• Both candidates agreed to certify the 2028 election results, but differed on immigration enforcement, with Tiffany supporting federal detainers and Crowley opposing local ICE contracts.

Background

This is the first open gubernatorial race in Wisconsin since 2010, with retiring Democratic Gov. Tony Evers stepping down. The race has been closely contested, with Crowley winning a narrow primary against democratic socialist Francesca Hong by fewer than 4,000 votes. Tiffany recently survived an emergency water landing in Lake Wausau, which he referenced in his closing statement.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News emphasized Crowley's attacks on Tiffany's alignment with Trump and billionaire donors, while WISN and WBAY focused more on the candidates' differing approaches to the budget surplus and tax policy. All outlets noted the debate's focus on affordability, but NBC highlighted the 2020 election controversy, while WISN and WBAY provided more detail on immigration and data center policies. The Marquette University poll shows the race within the margin of error, with Crowley leading 49% to 46% among likely voters.

Why it matters

Wisconsin is a key battleground state, and the governor's office influences state policy on taxes, education, and healthcare. The outcome could signal broader voter sentiment on economic issues and federal-state relations ahead of the 2028 presidential election.

What to watch

The election is scheduled for November 3, 2026. Both candidates will continue campaigning, with Crowley focusing on public services and Tiffany emphasizing tax relief. The Marquette University poll will likely be updated closer to election day to gauge any shifts in support.