Wisconsin gubernatorial primary features DSA candidate Francesca Hong

Francesca Hong, a Democratic Socialist of America (DSA) member and state representative, is the leading candidate in the Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial primary. Hong holds a significant polling lead over Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, though her candidacy has sparked debate regarding her political viability in a general election.

Critics and Republican opponents have highlighted controversial past social media posts from Hong, including calls to abolish the police and suggestions to cancel Thanksgiving. In response to these criticisms, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez defended Hong by suggesting voters focus on her current positions rather than past rhetoric, characterizing the previous era of radical political discourse as ‘Woke 1 was crazy.’ Ocasio-Cortez attributed much of that intense rhetoric to the unique social and economic conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While Hong’s campaign has focused on digital advertising and social policies like universal childcare and school meal programs, opponents argue her socialist platform could alienate moderate voters. The primary serves as a key test for the influence of the progressive wing within the Democratic Party as the state prepares for a highly contested general election.