Francesca Hong, a candidate endorsed by the Democratic Socialists of America, is positioned to become the Democratic nominee for governor of Wisconsin.
In a social‑media post from November 2020 that was later removed, Hong called for the cancellation of Thanksgiving, arguing that the holiday celebrates colonialism and references the smallpox epidemic that devastated Indigenous peoples.
The deleted message resurfaced during the campaign and prompted criticism and ridicule from political opponents and commentators.
Hong’s platform emphasizes a progressive agenda, including race‑based grants for social workers, publicly funded grocery stores, and the creation of a state‑run bank, reflecting her self‑identified socialist stance.
State campaign finance records indicate Hong has raised approximately $709,000, while her primary opponent, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, has raised about $250,000.
Crowley, who has received the endorsement of the incumbent governor, emphasizes his administrative experience and backing from local organizations.
The contest was reshaped when former lieutenant governor Mandela Barnes withdrew from the race amid an investigation into alleged workplace misconduct, leaving Hong and Crowley as the remaining contenders.
A 2019 social‑media post in which Hong described anxiety at a fast‑food restaurant and referenced “old white people” also attracted mockery and commentary from political observers.
The Democratic primary is scheduled for August 11, determining which candidate will represent the party in the November gubernatorial election.
