MADISON, Wis. – A new Badger Battleground Poll commissioned by Platform Communications finds Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley holding a narrow early lead over Congressman Tom Tiffany in the 2026 Wisconsin gubernatorial race, while voters show a high level of frustration headed into the midterm elections.

The survey of 500 likely General Election voters was conducted through live telephone interviews using a combination of landline and cell phones on Aug. 12-13, immediately after the Democratic and Republican primaries concluded. Platform’s bipartisan Badger Battleground poll is designed with input from top Republican Strategist Keith Gilkes and top Democratic strategist Tanya Bjork, providing a view of the top battleground state in the country informed by both sides of the aisle.

In this latest survey, Crowley leads Tiffany 48% to 44% statewide in the initial gubernatorial ballot test.

Tiffany enters the race slightly more defined than Crowley. Tiffany is seen as favorable by 38% of voters, and unfavorable by 43%. Crowley, on the other hand, is seen favorably by 43% of voters, and unfavorably by 26%, with 31% not yet knowing enough to form an opinion.

“Wisconsin voters are not particularly happy,” said Bjork, a Democratic strategist and Badger Battleground Poll Advisor. “That creates an opening for both candidates. Crowley has the advantage right now, but he will have to convince voters that Democrats deserve another four years in the governor’s office. Tiffany has an opportunity to make the election about change, but he has to overcome his own negatives first.”

Keith Gilkes, Republican strategist and Executive Chairman of Platform Communications, said the poll demonstrates an opportunity for Republicans despite Crowley’s early lead.

“Tom Tiffany is starting slightly down, but a four-point deficit in August is hardly insurmountable,” said Gilkes. “Crowley’s name ID is significantly lower than Tiffany’s, leaving more room for Republicans to define him and his record. Wisconsin voters are unhappy with the direction of the state. The question for Republicans will be whether Tiffany can turn that dissatisfaction into a compelling case for change.” 

Outgoing Gov. Tony Evers maintains a modestly positive standing among voters, with 49% viewing him favorably. On a national level, 56% of likely voters held an unfavorable view of President Donald Trump.

Voters remain dissatisfied with the direction of the state. A 51% majority say Wisconsin is headed in the wrong direction.

To view the poll memo outlining results, click here.