Wisconsin Democratic Primary: Socialist Francesca Hong Leads, Establishment Races to Stop Her

Published Aug 9, 03:02 PM UTC

In Wisconsin's Democratic gubernatorial primary, state Rep. Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist and former chef, has emerged as the front-runner, alarming the party establishment. Outgoing Gov. Tony Evers and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley are campaigning heavily against Hong, warning that her progressive positions—including past calls to defund the police and controversial remarks about Thanksgiving—make her unelectable against hard-right Republican nominee Tom Tiffany in November. Hong argues that voters are tired of establishment politics and that she can build a broad coalition. Despite a fundraising disadvantage and no TV ads, Hong has maintained wide leads in public polling. The primary is set for Tuesday, with both sides focusing on electability in this crucial battleground state.