Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong found herself under renewed scrutiny after a long-resurfaced 2020 tweet about canceling Thanksgiving emerged during her campaign. The post, which circulated online days before the August 11 primary, has drawn widespread attention and criticism as Hong leads the Democratic field. In the tweet, Hong wrote, “Cancel Thanksgiving. Should have done this in 1621.” She criticized the holiday as a celebration of colonialism and referred to it as “the original superspreader event that killed Indigenous folx and women.” The term “folx” was highlighted by conservative commentator Stephen Miller, who mocked the usage on his platform, suggesting it signaled an attempt to include marginalized communities while drawing attention to perceived political correctness. The resurfacing of the post coincided with Hong’s growing prominence within the Democratic Party. As she moves closer to securing the party’s nomination, critics have pointed to the controversy surrounding her past statements. The tweet, which was deleted in 2020, has been widely shared on social media, prompting both ridicule and debate. Some observers argue that Hong’s comments reflect broader tensions around historical narratives and cultural identity, particularly regarding Indigenous history and the legacy of colonization. Others see the remarks as emblematic of a more radical left-wing stance, aligning with progressive movements that challenge traditional American values. In addition to the Thanksgiving remark, Hong has faced public backlash over another viral post from 2019. At the time, she tweeted about an experience at a Culver’s restaurant in Black River Falls, describing how she “ate two bites of my kid’s cheeseburger” and claimed the establishment had run out of ice cream. She later admitted the post was poorly written, stating, “Omg English *TOO AN.” The incident sparked discussions about her ability to communicate effectively and manage stress, with some critics questioning whether such personal moments might influence public perception of her leadership capabilities. Political analysts have noted that Hong’s campaign strategy increasingly emphasizes her alignment with progressive policies. She advocates for race-based grants for social workers, publicly funded grocery stores, and a state-run bank, positions that resonate with supporters of democratic socialism. Her views mirror those of New York City Council Member Zohran Mamdani, further solidifying her image as a forward-thinking leader. However, these stances have also drawn opposition, particularly from more moderate Democrats who worry about the potential fallout from her controversial past. Hong’s campaign has also navigated internal party dynamics. Former Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes withdrew from the race last week, leaving Hong and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley as the main contenders. Outgoing Governor Tony Evers endorsed Crowley, adding complexity to the race. Despite the challenges, Hong has maintained a firm position on key issues, including her stance against the abolition of police departments and her support for gender-affirming care for minors. When asked directly about abolishing law enforcement, she described the idea as “cowardly,” reflecting her pragmatic approach to governance. As the election approaches, Hong faces mounting pressure to address the controversies surrounding her past. While her progressive agenda appeals to a segment of voters, the resurfacing of old posts continues to shape public discourse. Whether these incidents will ultimately impact her chances remains uncertain, but they underscore the challenges of running a high-profile campaign in a politically polarized environment. For now, Hong remains a central figure in Wisconsin’s upcoming gubernatorial race, navigating the intersection of ideology, politics, and public perception.
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