For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Next 50 today announced its endorsement of David Crowley for Governor of Wisconsin. The organization previously backed Crowley in his campaign for Milwaukee County Executive, and is now issuing a dual endorsement in the election for Wisconsin Governor alongside Lt. Governor Mandela Barnes.

“The Next 50 is proud to endorse David Crowley for Governor of Wisconsin,” said Mari Manoogian, Executive Director of The Next 50. “David’s story is one so many families know firsthand: housing instability, watching parents struggle to make ends meet, learning that hard work alone isn’t always enough when the systems around you are failing. He didn’t just live through that experience — he built a career fighting to fix it, from the State Assembly to two terms as Milwaukee County Executive, where he delivered real results for Milwaukee residents. We know he’ll bring that same proven, results-driven leadership to every corner of Wisconsin, including his Badger Basics plan to tackle affordability, expand care, and grow opportunity for families across the state. He sees the people behind every policy and puts them first. That’s the kind of governor Wisconsin needs, and that’s why we’re standing with David Crowley.”

“I’m proud to earn The Next 50’s endorsement. Our campaign is powered by people who believe the next generation of leaders should be judged on results, not campaign rhetoric. As Milwaukee County Executive, I have a record of delivering for working families, and as Governor I’ll do the same for every corner of Wisconsin. It’s an honor to have The Next 50 in this fight with me,” said David Crowley, Milwaukee County Executive and candidate for Wisconsin Governor.

This dual endorsement is a first for The Next 50, an organization built on identifying, supporting, and staying with the candidates it backs throughout their careers, and reflects the changing nature of this race. The Next 50 endorsed Barnes in 2022 for U.S. Senate, and Crowley in 2024 for re-election as County Executive, and endorsed Barnes after Crowley exited the race. With Crowley’s reentry in the race for Wisconsin Governor, The Next 50 is issuing this dual endorsement of these exceptional leaders, upholding the organization’s commitment to supporting candidates they have invested in as they pursue higher office.