In the recent Wisconsin gubernatorial race, David Crowley, a 40-year-old Milwaukee County official, unexpectedly won the Democratic nomination over three opponents, including Democratic Socialist Francesca Hong, who had led in some polls. Hong’s controversial proposals, such as abolishing the police and canceling Thanksgiving, and her poor performance in interviews contributed to her loss. Crowley will now face 68-year-old Republican Tom Tiffany, a congressman from Wisconsin’s rural North, who easily defeated political novice Andy Mansk in the GOP primary. The race underscores the unpredictability of polls and the importance of candidate quality and messaging in elections.