Buttigieg Joins Crowley for Final Wisconsin Push

The Wisconsin gubernatorial race concluded its final campaign activities on Monday, November 2, with a focus on voter turnout and economic concerns. Democratic candidate David Crowley and his running mate, Sarah Godlewski, spent the day in Milwaukee, Greendale, and other locations to close out a lengthy bid for the governor's office. The campaign emphasized affordability, specifically targeting the cost of gas, groceries, and childcare.

Former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg joined the effort on the last day of campaigning. He visited stops in Kenosha, Racine, and Milwaukee counties to support Crowley's bid. In Greendale, Buttigieg addressed the crowd about the need for civic engagement. He stated that some residents may need persuasion not on how to vote, but on whether to vote at all. He described the local energy as inspiring and urged supporters to maintain that momentum through Election Day.

Buttigieg connected the state's governor's race to national political themes. He argued that the decisions made in Wisconsin would have wide-reaching effects. According to Buttigieg, the outcome would shape the future of both the state and the country. This framing aimed to elevate the stakes of the local election for national observers and voters alike.

Crowley maintained a consistent message throughout his final day, attributing high costs of living to Republican opponent Tom Tiffany's voting record in Congress. Crowley told supporters in Greendale that parents and grandparents understand the financial burden of raising children. He noted that the high prices for basic necessities are felt deeply by families. The campaign argued that these economic pressures were the primary concern for voters.

Campaign volunteers reported that the message of affordability resonated with constituents. Trish Miller, a canvasser, shared an anecdote about two residents who expressed support for Crowley's campaign. Another volunteer, Tom Spehert, emphasized the importance of mobilization. He stated that getting people out to vote was a critical component of their strategy for Tuesday's election.

The campaign covered extensive ground before its conclusion. Crowley and Godlewski traveled more than 16,000 miles across Wisconsin since the primary election. Their itinerary included a 10-day bus tour that ended at a Milwaukee labor union hall on Monday night. This final venue marked the end of their organized travel efforts ahead of the vote.

Crowley's path to the general election was complex. He initially dropped out of the primary, endorsed another candidate, and then re-entered the race later. Now serving as the Milwaukee County executive, he expressed confidence in the final hours before the polls closed. Crowley said he planned to spend the evening with his daughters before awaiting the results. Both he and Godlewski intended to vote in person on Tuesday morning.