Campaign Controversy Intensifies
As the Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial primary approaches on August 11, frontrunner Francesca Hong is grappling with renewed scrutiny over past social media activity. During a recent appearance on CNN’s The Source with Kaitlan Collins, the candidate—a former state lawmaker and member of the Democratic Socialists of America—was pressed on a 2020 post in which she called for the cancellation of Thanksgiving, labeling it a “superspreader event” and a celebration of “colonialism.”
When asked directly by Collins if she still holds that position, Hong declined to provide a definitive yes or no. Instead, she pivoted to her background as a chef and restaurant owner, noting that while the holiday is “incredibly painful for many people,” she values the act of bringing people together around a table. Her campaign has subsequently stated that she does not wish to cancel the holiday, but the exchange has left a lingering political opening for her opponents.
Political Stakes and Polling
The controversy arrives at a critical juncture in the race. Polling data from Marquette University and other outlets have consistently placed Hong at the front of the Democratic primary field, with recent July surveys showing her with a double-digit lead. However, general election polling suggests a more competitive landscape. In head-to-head matchups against the likely Republican nominee, Rep. Tom Tiffany, some surveys indicate Hong trailing by three percentage points, highlighting the potential electoral risks of her past social media presence.
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from political strategists. David Axelrod, a former senior adviser to President Obama, remarked that such responses could lead voters to conclude that “Ds may be cooked” if Hong secures the nomination. Rep. Tom Tiffany, who is expected to advance as the GOP nominee, has utilized the controversy to frame his own campaign as a defender of traditional American holidays.
Broader Pattern of Social Media Scrutiny
Beyond the Thanksgiving post, reports have surfaced detailing a pattern of critical commentary from Hong regarding several other national holidays, including Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and the Fourth of July. These past remarks, combined with her policy platform—which includes calls to enshrine abortion access in the state constitution and to protect gender-affirming medical care for minors—have solidified her position as a progressive candidate, but also provided significant material for opposition campaigns to challenge her viability among moderate and independent voters in the November general election.