The Wisconsin Democratic primary has become a focal point as former Governor Scott Walker discusses the competition between establishment candidates and Francesca Hong, supported by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). During an analysis with host Harris Faulkner, Hong’s progressive stances, including her ‘cancel Thanksgiving’ statement, were scrutinized.
Francesca Hong, a state representative in Wisconsin, is running for the Democratic nomination for governor. She has previously attracted attention for her candid expressions on social media. In a post from January 2022, Hong referred to America as rife with “an abundance of suffering.” Her post read, “I want this country to stop being an abundance of suffering but a wealth of opportunity. We can do this by providing equal rights to Black and Brown folks and electing more who won’t be racist obstructionists.”
One significant controversy involves Hong’s deleted post, which remarked, “Cancel Thanksgiving. Should have done this in 1621.” Addressing celebrations linked to colonialism, the post highlighted the impact on indigenous communities. Despite facing criticism, Hong remains a prominent figure among candidates challenging established Democrats.
Hong, who identifies as Korean American, faced backlash for a 2019 post where she expressed anxiety due to being surrounded by White individuals at a Culver’s restaurant. Moreover, in response to the 2020 shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Hong advocated for abolishing the police, claiming, “How is 7 bullets in the back not excessive force? Police exist to uphold White supremacy. Defund then abolish.” Her campaign clarified her views on policing as aspirational.
Though Hong acknowledges the governor’s limited power concerning police funding, she has maintained her personal beliefs. When addressing her social media activity, Hong admitted to having had impulsive opinions during college when she aspired to be a sports journalist.
Hong, accompanied by notable figures like Rep. Ilhan Omar and Hasan Piker, continues campaigning. The campaign has not commented on recent social media findings, but Hong emphasizes voter issues as her focus.