With just over a week left before Wisconsin voters head to the polls, both major party candidates for governor are on the road, stopping in towns across the state to rally supporters and persuade undecided voters.
Bus tours hit local communities
Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany, who represents the Bellevue area, and his Democratic challenger, Shawano County Executive David Crowley, each stepped off their campaign buses to enthusiastic cheers in the towns they visited. The tours are designed to bring the candidates directly to voters, allowing residents to hear each platform first‑hand.
“Affordability, accountability, common sense. That’s what we’re going to deliver for the people of the state of Wisconsin,” said Tiffany, emphasizing his focus on lowering costs for families and businesses.
Crowley countered with a broader vision, stating, “I’m going to work for you. I’m going to work to lower your costs. I’m going to make sure that we can expand healthcare, improve our schools and most importantly I’m going to bring people together to do it.” He highlighted rising prices for gas, groceries and utilities as the driving force behind his campaign.
Turnout trends and voter motivation
The Wisconsin Elections Commission reports that the 2024 presidential election saw a 73% voter turnout, while the 2022 midterm election, which also featured a governor’s race, recorded a 57% turnout. Both candidates are using the bus tours to stress the importance of participation, urging Wisconsinites to avoid the lower turnout of past midterms.
Tiffany outlined an eight‑point plan aimed at making Wisconsin more affordable, saying, “We have a great opportunity here. Wisconsin’s going to decide which direction it’s going to go. The ‘woke and broke’ path like Minnesota and Illinois, or become a shining star in America.” Crowley responded that voters need leadership that can bridge the political spectrum and help everyone get ahead.
Polling snapshot
A recent Marquette Law School poll of likely voters, released at the end of September, placed Crowley three points ahead of Tiffany. The poll reflects a competitive race, and a final poll is scheduled for release on Wednesday, just days before the election.
Both campaigns plan to continue their bus tours through the remainder of the week, making stops in additional communities to keep the conversation moving forward and to ensure that every voter has the chance to hear each candidate’s message directly.
What’s at stake
The governor’s office has been held by Democrat Tony Evers since 2018, following twelve years of Republican leadership under former Governor Scott Walker. The upcoming election will determine whether Wisconsin continues on its current Democratic trajectory or returns to Republican control.
As the final stretch of the campaign unfolds, the focus remains on voter outreach, policy contrasts, and the promise each candidate makes to address cost‑of‑living pressures while fostering a sense of unity across the state.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
