Wisconsin governor primary upset highlights Democratic divide ahead of midterms

David Crowley has won the Democratic nomination for Wisconsin governor, narrowly defeating Democratic socialist Francesca Hong in a closely watched primary.

(NBC)- David Crowley has won the Democratic nomination for Wisconsin governor, narrowly defeating Democratic socialist Francesca Hong in a closely watched primary.

NBC News projected Crowley as the winner in the race. Backed by the Democratic Party’s establishment wing, Crowley argued during the campaign that Hong’s positions on several issues were too extreme, including her previous support for abolishing police, a position Hong says she no longer supports.

“We’re going to need someone who can build the necessary coalitions and speak to unity, not necessarily division,” Crowley said.

Crowley will now face Republican nominee Tom Tiffany in the November general election.

The debate over the direction of the Democratic Party also played out in Minnesota, where progressive Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan defeated moderate incumbent Rep. Angie Craig in the Democratic Senate primary.

“We can insist on change, and send someone who will always put Minnesota first,” Flanagan said.

On the Republican side, South Carolina’s special U.S. Senate election is headed to a runoff.

Sen. Darline Graham will face Republican Rep. Ralph Norman in the race to replace her late brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham. Darline Graham was appointed to temporarily hold the seat and has received the endorsement of President Donald Trump.

Norman has focused on Graham’s lack of political experience, saying voters do not know where she stands on many issues.

Graham has embraced her political newcomer status and said she plans to spend the runoff campaign meeting with voters and listening to their concerns.

The races come with control of Congress and key state offices at stake in November’s midterm elections.