Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong confirmed her active membership in the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) during a Friday interview, while distancing herself from certain proposals associated with the organization.
Hong, a Democratic state representative, acknowledged her dues-paying membership since 2020 in the Madison chapter of the DSA. She identified herself as a democratic socialist and former service industry worker during the appearance on America’s Newsroom. Her confirmation followed scrutiny over past social media posts endorsing policies such as abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), dismantling the Senate, and defunding the police.
Hong rejected several DSA platform positions, stating that abolishing the Senate is “nonsensical and non-practical at this time” and that she opposes eliminating the Supreme Court, citing a belief in checks and balances. She also asserted that her views on policing have evolved, emphasizing that as governor, she would be unable to unilaterally defund police departments. Hong compared her shift in stance to voters changing their political preferences, stating, “I believe that people can evolve.”
The candidate’s campaign previously denied claims that she had ever called for abolishing the Senate, despite archived social media posts from 2021 appearing to reflect that position. Fox News’ Dana Perino pressed Hong on whether she still supported police abolition, to which Hong responded by rejecting her earlier rhetoric. “Who needs to evolve, the voter or you?” Perino asked, prompting Hong to clarify that her current priorities differ from past statements.
Hong’s gubernatorial bid has drawn attention due to her progressive platform and ties to the DSA, a group often associated with left-wing policy proposals. Critics have highlighted her past advocacy for police abolition and dismantling federal institutions, while supporters argue her positions reflect a commitment to systemic reform. The campaign has framed her evolution on these issues as a reflection of pragmatic governance over ideological rigidity.
The controversy underscores broader debates within the Democratic Party about the influence of democratic socialist policies on electoral strategy, particularly in swing states like Wisconsin. Hong’s ability to reconcile her past rhetoric with her current campaign messaging remains a focal point for political observers.