Pro-Palestinian democratic socialist Francesca Hong polling far ahead in Wisconsin governor’s race

State Rep. Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist, leads the Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial primary, polling at 44% versus 17% for Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. Her campaign has drawn concern from Jewish groups over her Israel record, including appearances with critics and a call to overturn a boycott ban. Her general-election viability may hinge on views of the Democratic Socialists of America.

State Rep. Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist, is leading the Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial primary, with a poll showing her at 44% support, double that of her nearest rival, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. The primary concludes Tuesday, and Hong's success has buoyed pro-Palestinian progressives following Abdul El-Sayed's narrow Senate primary win in Michigan. Hong's campaign has faced criticism from Jewish groups over her record on Israel, including appearances with activists who have made controversial statements, and her call to overturn a ban on state contracts with businesses that boycott Israel. She has also apologized for calling police about a vandalized Israeli flag in 2023, saying she now regrets the call. Her general-election viability may hinge on broader views of the Democratic Socialists of America, especially after a DSA co-chair made controversial remarks about the Oct. 7 attacks.