Progressives Challenge Democratic Establishment in Wisconsin and Minnesota Primaries
Progressive candidates are challenging the Democratic establishment in the upcoming primaries in Wisconsin and Minnesota. In Wisconsin, democratic socialist Francesca Hong is competing in the gubernatorial primary, while in Minnesota, progressive Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan is in a U.S. Senate…
Minneapolis St. Paul, MN, August 10, 2026 —
The upcoming primary elections in Wisconsin and Minnesota are setting the stage for significant challenges to the established Democratic party leadership, as progressive candidates vie for nominations.
In Wisconsin, democratic socialist Francesca Hong is mounting a challenge in the gubernatorial primary. Her candidacy represents a push by progressive forces to gain a foothold in state-level executive races.
Meanwhile, in Minnesota, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan is engaged in a U.S. Senate primary race. Flanagan’s campaign is part of a broader trend of progressive figures seeking higher federal office.
These contests in Wisconsin and Minnesota are drawing attention partly due to recent developments in other states. Notably, a progressive candidate achieved a victory in Michigan’s U.S. Senate primary. This outcome has led to growing concerns among some Democratic leaders regarding the electability of progressive candidates in the broader general election contests.
The primary races in Wisconsin and Minnesota are seen by many as key indicators of the Democratic Party’s direction and the strength of its progressive wing in different electoral landscapes.
Story summarized from the original created by By Scott Bauer and Jonathan J. Cooper, AP on www.minnpost.com, see more information here.
