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The Establishment Strikes Back: Crowley beats Hong in Wisconsin, what it means for Democrats and the DSA

Aug 12, 2026 · 44m

Summary

Morning Joe analyzes the surprise victory of David Crowley in the Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial primary, noting how electability concerns over DSA candidate Francesca Hong’s past comments helped Crowley secure the nomination. The panel also discusses progressive wins in Minnesota and Michigan, while mocking MyPillow founder Mike Lindell’s refusal to concede his primary loss. Additionally, experts Richard Haas and Jonathan Lemire examine the U.S. military’s low-key approach to Iran, highlighting dangerously low munition stocks and the strategic shift toward economic pressure rather than…

Topics discussed

Ozempic commercial and introduction Crowley's deleted post on canceling Thanksgiving DSA candidates' class backgrounds and privilege Democratic primary dynamics and Biden comparisons Wisconsin primary results and Crowley's comeback Analysis of 'woke' politics and electability Rural Wisconsin's role and party unity Crowley vs. Hong and Republican opponents Wisconsin as a key battleground state Minnesota primary: Lindell's loss and claims Election denialism and Trump's influence Lessons for Democrats from Midwest primaries Political athleticism and candidate resilience Weather forecast and Mystic, CT promotion Connecticut primary results and generational change US military action against Iranian-linked ship Strategic pressure on Iran and economic sanctions Iran's economic resilience and negotiation stalemate US munitions shortages and military weakness Assassinations as statecraft and foreign policy debate
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