Key facts
- Progressives believe Francesca Hong is poised for a significant win in the Wisconsin gubernatorial primary.
- Many national progressive leaders have not endorsed Hong, citing concerns about her messaging and electability.
- Hong's past social media posts advocating for canceling Thanksgiving and defunding the police have drawn criticism.
- Republicans plan to attack Hong on her democratic socialist platform and her campaign staff.
- Some Democratic officials express concern that Hong's "socialism" message may alienate persuadable voters in the battleground state.
Progressives are optimistic about Francesca Hong's chances in the Wisconsin gubernatorial primary, viewing a potential victory as a significant step for the movement. However, many prominent national progressive figures, including Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have not endorsed Hong. Some have privately expressed concerns about her messaging and electability, particularly regarding past social media comments advocating for controversial positions like canceling Thanksgiving and defunding the police. These comments, which Hong now calls "bad takes," have become a point of attack for Republicans.
Despite the hesitation from some high-profile leaders, Hong has garnered support from various progressive groups and some federal lawmakers, such as Representative Ilhan Omar and Representative Ro Khanna, who has endorsed her. Leftist influencer Hasan Piker also recently campaigned with Hong. Republicans are planning coordinated attacks, focusing on Hong's adherence to the Democratic Socialists of America platform and her deputy campaign manager's past association with an OnlyFans account. Hong's campaign has defended its staff, highlighting their professional backgrounds and grassroots organizing efforts.
Interviews with Wisconsin voters suggest Hong has tapped into frustration with centrist Democratic leadership and local concerns about the cost of living, leading her in recent polls against rival David Crowley, though he has gained ground. If Hong wins the primary and general election against Republican Tom Tiffany, it could force national Democrats to take notice of her brand of politics. However, some Wisconsin Democratic officials worry that the "socialism" label and "unforced errors" in Hong's campaign could be detrimental in the closely divided state, where recent gubernatorial elections have been decided by narrow margins.