As Francesca Hong surged, Democratic rivals held their fire: From the Politics Desk

Key Points:

• Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong has faced minimal direct attacks from her Democratic rivals, which may have contributed to her double-digit lead in polls ahead of the primary.
• Outside groups backing rival David Crowley launched the first Democratic-aligned TV ad criticizing Hong late in the race, while Republican-linked groups have spent nearly $3 million attacking her as too liberal.
• Despite criticism from some Democrats about Hong’s progressive positions, prominent figures like Gov. Tony Evers have indicated they will support her if she wins the nomination, and the primary campaign has seen less negative advertising compared to other battleground states.
• In Pennsylvania, Senators John Fetterman (D) and Dave McCormick (R) have formed an unusual bipartisan partnership, collaborating on various policy initiatives and joint fundraising, which has raised concerns among Democrats about Fetterman’s alignment and effectiveness.
• The bipartisan relationship between Fetterman and McCormick is seen as genuine by some but has attracted criticism from Democrats who accuse Fetterman of advancing Republican priorities without sufficient benefits for his party or state.