Koch‑backed group launches $3 million ad blitz to boost Tom Tiffany’s Wisconsin governor bid
A Koch network‑aligned group launched a $3 million advertising campaign Monday to boost Rep. Tom Tiffany’s bid for Wisconsin governor.
The spending comes as the Republican Party tries to recapture the state’s top executive office, which has been held by Democrats and will be open after Gov. Tony Evers announced his retirement. Tiffany faces Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley in a race that the Cook Political Report labels a toss‑up, and real‑time polling shows Crowley with a modest 3.5‑point lead.
The campaign, funded by Americans for Prosperity‑Wisconsin, will run two 30‑second spots on radio, cable TV and digital platforms. The ads contrast Crowley’s record on taxes and crime with Tiffany’s six years in Congress, highlighting the former’s decision to double the county’s sales tax and raise property taxes.
“Wisconsin families are already paying enough, and they deserve better than being asked to pay more for continued failures in the basic responsibilities of government,” AFP‑WI state director Megan Novak told the Washington Examiner. “David Crowley’s record in Milwaukee County has meant higher taxes and higher costs without the accountability taxpayers expect from their leaders.” Novak added that Tiffany has a track record of fighting to lower taxes, rein in costs and hold government accountable.
Monday’s announcement lifts AFP‑WI’s total investment in the state to $10 million, part of a broader $20 million commitment to gubernatorial races in Wisconsin, Michigan and Kansas this cycle. The organization’s grassroots operation has already knocked on thousands of doors, and activists expect to reach their one‑millionth door knock statewide in the coming week.
Political analysts note that while the race remains tight, the influx of money and door‑to‑door outreach could narrow Crowley’s lead as early voting begins. Both campaigns are expected to intensify messaging in the final weeks before the November election.
Americans for Prosperity‑Wisconsin says the $3 million blitz will continue through the election, delivering ads across the state and expanding voter‑contact efforts to ensure Wisconsinites hear the case for “better leadership” from Tom Tiffany.
