Francesca Hong Faces Scrutiny Over Past Comments on Thanksgiving

Francesca Hong, a leading Democratic candidate for governor of Wisconsin, has come under scrutiny for a past social media post suggesting that Americans should not celebrate Thanksgiving. In a now-deleted post from November 2020, Hong stated, "Cancel Thanksgiving. Should have done this in 1621," and expressed that the pandemic highlighted the need to stop celebrating colonialism. The comments have drawn criticism and mockery from various online observers. Hong, who is backed by the Democratic Socialists of America, has emphasized her progressive platform, which includes policies such as race-based grants for social workers and publicly funded grocery stores. Her campaign has gained momentum, especially following the withdrawal of former lieutenant governor Mandela Barnes from the race. As of late June, Hong had raised nearly $709,000, while her main opponent, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, has raised $250,000. The gubernatorial primary is scheduled for August 11.