Supporters of Democratic candidate Francesca Hong are rallying behind the progressive politician, expressing confidence in her candidacy for Wisconsin governor ahead of the state's primary election. Hong, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), is running on a platform centered on economic relief and affordability.
Campaign volunteers and supporters gathered at Hong's campaign headquarters in Madison, highlighting their belief that she is addressing the pressing issues faced by working-class families. "Everybody's struggling right now. The price of gas is insane. Trying to pay for your groceries is insane, trying to pay your rent is insane," said campaign canvasser Josiah Wampfler, emphasizing the broad economic challenges. "We're all struggling, and she's presenting solutions to bring down prices and to have improved government programs."
The affordability crisis, marked by rising costs for groceries, housing, and healthcare, has become a central concern for many Americans. The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed bipartisan legislation aimed at increasing the supply of affordable housing.
Hong enters the primary night as a polling frontrunner in a Democratic field that has seen shifts, with several high-profile contenders exiting or temporarily suspending their campaigns.
Francesca Hong's policy proposals include state-guaranteed paid leave, raising the minimum wage in Wisconsin from $7.25 to $20 per hour, and implementing a one-year moratorium on new AI data center construction. Her tax plan proposes a 1% increase in state income taxes for couples earning over $431,000 and individuals earning over $323,000.
Supporters view Hong's campaign as a grassroots movement seeking significant change. "I think what I've seen inside of Madison and throughout the state is that people are looking for change — dare I say radical change — because we have been subjected to a lot of very moderate views for a long time, and people are suffering," said volunteer Dana, wearing a "Hotties for Hong" campaign shirt.
Despite national progressive figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders not issuing endorsements in her gubernatorial contest, Hong's supporters are unfazed. They suggest that national progressive leaders often focus their endorsements on federal races. Wampfler noted that national progressive leaders have concentrated their endorsements on federal contests this cycle, pointing to endorsements in recent U.S. Senate primaries. "I know that they don't generally endorse gubernatorial campaigns," Wampfler stated. "I think that it shows that Fran is building this out of Wisconsin." Hong herself has expressed respect for these national figures, stating, "I have so much respect for the senator and the congresswoman, and they are working tirelessly to make sure that we can that we can flip Congress and the Senate."