Wisconsin gubernatorial candidates split on gun reform approach
Democrat David Crowley and Republican Tom Tiffany offer contrasting solutions to the state's rising firearm homicide and suicide rates ahead of Tuesday's general election.
By Yasmin Nasser ·
David Crowley and Tom Tiffany present voters with distinct frameworks for addressing gun violence as they campaign for the Wisconsin governor's mansion. The Democrat frames the issue as a public health crisis requiring systemic intervention, while the Republican focuses on law enforcement and existing constitutional rights. Their differing philosophies reflect the specific statistical challenges facing urban and rural communities across the state.
Data from the Violence Policy Center illustrates the geographic divide in firearm deaths. In 2024, the firearm homicide rate in urban Wisconsin was more than four times the rural rate. Milwaukee and other city centers bear a disproportionate burden of these deaths. Conversely, rural communities face higher rates of firearm suicide. In 2023, the suicide rate in rural areas stood at 10.3 deaths per 100,000 residents, compared with 7.1 in urban areas.
Tiffany argues that the state does not face a gun problem but a crime problem. He stated in a June 2022 statement that America needs to address criminal behavior rather than restrict firearm ownership. He opposes federal legislation that includes enhanced background checks for buyers under 21 and funding for state red flag laws. His platform prioritizes the prosecution of violent offenders and ensuring law enforcement agencies have adequate resources.
In an email to reporters, Tiffany said his priority will be enforcing existing laws and keeping violent criminals off the streets. He emphasized that prosecutors must hold repeat offenders accountable instead of giving them lenient sentences. Tiffany also highlighted his efforts to improve access to mental health care for veterans, young people, and individuals in crisis. He noted that he helped double state funding for school mental health programs during his time in the state legislature.
Crowley views gun violence as a public health crisis that impacts families and neighborhoods statewide. He plans to expand community violence prevention programs if elected governor. His strategy involves collaboration between community organizations, elected officials, and law enforcement. As county executive, he launched initiatives such as Advance Peace, Credible Messenger, and Destined for Greater. These programs aim to intervene before gun violence occurs.
The Crowley campaign platform calls for universal background checks and safe firearm takeback options. It also advocates for expanded access to free gun locks. Crowley believes these measures will reduce the number of firearms available to those who may use them in a crisis. He views these legislative changes as necessary tools to complement community-based efforts.
Tiffany has voted against federal legislation to expand firearm background checks and ban certain assault-style weapons. He supported the Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2025 and the National Constitutional Carry Act. He stated that restricting the rights of law-abiding Americans would not make communities safer. His approach relies on expanded concealed carry rights and strict enforcement of current laws.
The general election is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 3. Voters will decide which approach to gun safety they prefer as they cast their ballots. The outcome will determine the leadership style applied to the state's public safety challenges in the coming years.
