Francesca Hong, the likely Democratic nominee for governor in Wisconsin, supported by the Democratic Socialists of America, has faced backlash for past comments regarding Thanksgiving. In a now-deleted post from November 2020, she suggested discontinuing Thanksgiving celebrations.
“Cancel Thanksgiving. Should have done this in 1621,” Hong wrote. “If it takes a worldwide pandemic for us to realize we should stop celebrating colonialism and the original superspreader event that killed indigenous folx and women, so be it.”
This post reflects Hong’s progressive stance as she emerges as a leading candidate in the Wisconsin gubernatorial race, drawing online criticism. Conservative commentator Stephen Miller noted her use of the term “folx,” a term that aims to include LGBTQ+ and marginalized groups.
Hong is expected to become the Democratic nominee for governor. Observers have commented on her past message about Thanksgiving with surprise.
Hong’s campaign centers on her socialist agenda, which she describes as advocating for “working-class people to have their fair share.” Her platform includes policies like race-based grants for social workers, publicly funded grocery stores, and a state-run bank, aligning with progressives like New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
Hong has gained traction, looking likely to secure the Democratic nomination with less than two weeks until the primary.
She faced further ridicule due to a resurfaced 2019 post where she recounted a visit to a Culver’s restaurant in Black River Falls. She experienced an anxiety attack concerning perceived stereotypes of “old white people” at the establishment.
Critics, including former White House Principal Deputy Communications Director Alex Pfeiffer, commented on her anxiety admission. Critiques followed about her misunderstanding of Culver’s menu, as noted by online personalities, bringing her suitability into question.
The race took a turn when former lieutenant governor Mandela Barnes exited the race amidst allegations being investigated by The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel regarding his conduct in office.
With Barnes out, the field now includes Hong and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. Hong has national support from figures like Rep. Ilhan Omar and Rep. Ro Khanna, raising nearly $709,000 by late June.
Crowley has raised $250,000 and has local endorsements. Gov. Tony Evers supports Crowley, citing his experience.
The gubernatorial primary is set for August 11. Fox News Digital has reached out to Hong’s campaign for comment.
Leo Briceno is a politics reporter at Fox News Digital, with prior experience at World Magazine.