Progressive Francesca Hong Leads Chaotic Wisconsin Democratic Gubernatorial Primary

State Assemblymember Francesca Hong, a former restaurant owner and single mother, has become the leading candidate in the Democratic primary for Wisconsin governor. Her grassroots campaign, built on events ranging from karaoke nights to local bike races, has helped her pull ahead of four other contenders, according to recent polls.

Hong’s platform includes universal childcare, fully funded public schools and a one-year moratorium on new data-center construction. She says she entered the race to give Wisconsinites "a chance to fight for change" and to move away from what she calls a stagnant status quo.

"I got into this race because I know we can win and Wisconsinites are ready to fight for each other and for change," Hong told the Guardian.

The primary field has seen several withdrawals and re-entries. Former lieutenant governor Sara Rodriguez left the race after finance irregularities, while Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley briefly exited and then re-entered, citing concerns about electability. Outgoing Governor Tony Evers endorsed Crowley, and his campaign memo suggested that some polling may be inaccurate.

Republican candidate Tom Tiffany, who ran unopposed in his party’s primary, is the likely general-election opponent. Tiffany, a former Trump supporter, has raised more cash than any Democratic contender so far.

Democratic strategist David Axelrod has publicly questioned Hong’s viability, describing her as a "font of zany liberal" commentary. Political science professor Michael Wagner noted that while Democrats often favor moderate candidates in swing states, Wisconsin’s recent elections have been decided by narrow margins, making the outcome less predictable.

Hong has faced renewed scrutiny over old tweets, including a 2020 post suggesting a cancellation of Thanksgiving, which Republicans and President Donald Trump have highlighted. Hong’s campaign manager Becky Cooper said the focus on years-old social-media posts distracts from policy issues such as healthcare and property-tax relief.

If Hong secures the nomination, she would join Democrats aiming to retain control of the state’s executive office and both legislative chambers, a goal that could shape the party’s agenda in the Midwest.

"The Wisconsin governor certifies presidential election results, and Tom Tiffany was part of a plot to overturn the 2020 results," said Ben Wikler, former chair of the state Democratic Party.

Analysts say Hong’s strongest support comes from younger voters, but she will need to broaden her appeal to moderates and independents to succeed in the general election.