Francesca Hong, a Wisconsin state legislator, is campaigning for governor, aiming to demonstrate that a democratic socialist can succeed in a swing state. Her candidacy, however, has sparked concerns that it might give Republicans an advantage.

Some say she would hand the race to Republicans. Hong, a democratic socialist herself, believes she can attract Republican votes. Jeff Hanneman, a Wisconsin Rapids resident, reflects this crossover appeal. The 43-year-old Republican supported President Trump but was drawn to Hong because of her stance against a proposed data center near his home. Worried about potential pollution to the Wisconsin River, he embraced her call to halt data center developments.

Hanneman, disinterested in political labels, displayed both a No Data Center sign and a Francesca Hong for Governor sign in his yard, believing her leadership could benefit the state.

The progressive movement, driven by dissatisfaction with the traditional Democratic Party, is gaining momentum. Liberals are disillusioned with what they perceive as an establishment too aligned with corporate interests. This shift has seen democratic socialist candidates win primaries in key urban areas like New York City, Denver, and Philadelphia.

Ms. Hong, at 37 and a former restaurant owner, hopes to secure her party’s nomination. If successful, she would face a challenging general election against a Republican candidate. This possibility alarms some Democrats who fear that her socialist ideology could alienate moderate and conservative voters in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin’s history adds complexity to the situation. The state, which supported Trump in the 2024 election, may not readily embrace a socialist candidate. Still, Hong’s campaign seeks to capitalize on the growing progressive enthusiasm while addressing traditional concerns of Wisconsin’s electorate.