Former child actress Renee Olstead, also known as Renee Faust, has taken on a senior role in Wisconsin state Rep. Francesca Hong’s gubernatorial campaign. Olstead is reportedly serving as the deputy campaign manager, as reported by The Heartland Post, ahead of the upcoming Democratic primary.

Since at least January, Olstead has worked as a paid campaign operative. Her social media profile promotes Hong’s campaign and includes links to a get-out-the-vote page. Additionally, she has been involved in logistical arrangements for significant campaign events, including those featuring political commentator Hasan Piker.

“Hong 4 GOV” – Renee Olstead’s social media bio.

The Heartland Post highlighted that Olstead’s background includes advocacy work for sex workers’ rights. She previously founded the Coalition for American Sex Workers (CASW – LOCAL 304), focusing on decriminalization and policy changes.

Francesca Hong, a Democratic socialist, is competing in the Democratic primary alongside other candidates such as Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, former Wisconsin Department of Administration Secretary Joel Brennan, and Democratic state Sen. Kelda Roys. The campaign has stated that Olstead joined in December and is a licensed mental health clinician who has built a substantial grassroots campaign.

The campaign has faced both praise and criticism. Hong and others presented Olstead an official citation from the Wisconsin State Assembly, recognizing her advocacy for sex workers and her honor as “Penthouse Pet of the Year” in 2024. Meanwhile, Wisconsin Family Action expressed disapproval of Olstead’s role in the campaign, raising questions about leadership should Hong be elected.

Francesca Hong has also expressed support for progressive policies such as decriminalizing adult prostitution and establishing a sex workers’ bill of rights. However, as the primary approaches, she appears to have modified her stance on issues like abolishing the U.S. Senate and defunding the police.

Hong’s previous social media posts have sparked some controversy. A 2020 post suggesting the cancellation of Thanksgiving ignited criticism. Recently, she clarified her appreciation for the holiday, stating, “My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. Yep, I don’t want to cancel it. I actually love it.”