David Crowley, Milwaukee County executive, reentered Wisconsin’s Democratic gubernatorial primary on Saturday, just two weeks after withdrawing from the race. His return was bolstered by a late endorsement from outgoing Governor Tony Evers, who had previously withheld support amid a fractious contest for the state’s top office.

The endorsement and Crowley’s reentry come amid a turbulent primary season that has endangered Democratic prospects in a key swing state. Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez, another leading candidate, recently exited the race following a campaign finance scandal that included the abrupt firing of her campaign manager and the disclosure of significant discrepancies in her campaign funds.

At a campaign event in Milwaukee on Saturday, Crowley emphasized the importance of uniting a broad coalition of voters, including moderates and independents, to secure victory in November. He framed his experience and ability to build bipartisan relationships as essential to succeeding in Wisconsin’s competitive political landscape. Crowley described Evers’s endorsement as an indication of confidence in his leadership and electability.

Democrats are aiming to regain full control of Wisconsin state government for the first time since 2010, a goal they view as critical to shaping the political battleground for upcoming presidential elections. The primary’s volatility, underscored by Rodriguez’s withdrawal and Crowley’s sudden return, adds uncertainty to the party’s efforts to consolidate support ahead of the general election.

Crowley, 40, now faces a reshaped Democratic primary field as candidates vie to lead the campaign in a state where winning over a diverse electorate will be crucial. The developments highlight ongoing challenges within the Democratic Party as it seeks to maintain a competitive edge in Wisconsin’s pivotal gubernatorial race.