Democrat David Crowley has defeated Republican U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany in Wisconsin’s 3 November 2026 gubernatorial election, becoming the first Black governor in the state’s 178-year history, the Associated Press has reported.
Crowley secured 1,198,098 votes (53.5%), compared with Tiffany’s 1,039,635 votes (46.5%), winning by 158,463 votes, according to reported election results.
His victory marks a historic milestone for Wisconsin, a politically competitive state that has played an important role in recent US presidential elections.
Crowley, 40, previously served as Milwaukee County Executive, becoming the first Black person to hold the position in 2020.
He will succeed outgoing Democratic Governor Tony Evers, who decided not to seek a third term.
During his campaign, Crowley focused on the cost of living, healthcare, education and affordable childcare.
His victory extends Democratic control of Wisconsin’s governorship and ensures that a Democrat will lead the battleground state into the next presidential election cycle.
Crowley’s election marks a significant moment in Wisconsin’s political history, making him the first African American to serve as governor since the state joined the United States in 1848.
