Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong confronts renewed criticism over past social‑media posts
Old social‑media posts by Francesca Hong have resurfaced, drawing fresh criticism as the Democratic primary for Wisconsin governor intensifies. A 2020 post suggesting the cancellation of Thanksgiving was highlighted, and Hong told a news outlet she does not intend to cancel the holiday. Her campaign has not issued a comment on the controversy, while right‑leaning outlets continue to spotlight the material. Meanwhile, Hong held a rally in Milwaukee that featured guest speakers including Ilhan Omar and internet commentator Hasan Piker, drawing attention from both supporters and opponents.
How this was covered
- Left-leaning outlets covered this 35h later
Why it matters
The episode shows how a candidate’s historical online activity can become a focal point in a competitive primary and influence voter perceptions.
How the sides frame it
LOW AGREEMENTLeft-leaning coverage frames Hong as a progressive socialist candidate whose past remarks are being unfairly attacked, while right-leaning coverage portrays her as a radical “woke” figure whose anti-holiday statements reveal extremist views; Centrist coverage simply reports the backlash and notes criticism from both Democrats and conservatives.
LEFT
Hong is presented as a forward-looking democratic socialist whose platform and personal experience are emphasized, with the controversy cast as overblown attacks by right-wing outlets and a call for the left to move beyond outdated positions.
RIGHT
Hong is depicted as an extremist “woke” candidate whose anti-holiday and anti-police comments expose a radical agenda, using language that questions her patriotism and fitness for office.
The left emphasises
- Hong’s progressive platform (Medicare for All, universal childcare, ICE abolition, cannabis legalization).
- The resurfaced Thanksgiving tweet is framed as a target of right-wing attacks.
- Calls for left-leaning candidates to bluntly reject outdated positions.
The right emphasises
- Hong’s past anti-holiday posts and “cancel Thanksgiving” stance as evidence of radicalism.
- Additional controversial remarks (Culver’s incident, police as upholding white supremacy).
- Labeling her as the “most psychotic Democrat” and warning that her views threaten traditional celebrations.
How this story developed
- Aug 4 Wisconsin gubernatorial frontrunner Francesca Hong defends past call to cancel Thanksgiving
- Aug 5 A 2019 Culver's restaurant comment has been highlighted alongside earlier posts.
- Aug 5 Right‑wing outlets highlighted Hong’s 2023 interview disclosing a teenage hospitalization and bipolar diagnosis.
- Aug 7 Hong held a Milwaukee rally featuring Hasan Piker and Ilhan Omar.
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