Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong is facing renewed scrutiny over past remarks on mental health, race, and Thanksgiving, as multiple controversies resurface during her primary campaign. Hong, a Democratic Socialist and state assemblywoman, remains the frontrunner in the Democratic primary for the August 11 election.
Hong’s campaign confirmed she is currently in treatment for depression and takes antidepressants, while right-wing media outlets have highlighted her 2023 interview discussing a teenage mental health hospitalization and a prior bipolar disorder diagnosis. Hong stated in a 2023 interview that her mental health struggles deepened her empathy and informed her policy focus on expanding community mental health resources.
Hong also faced questions about a 2020 social media post calling to 'cancel Thanksgiving', which resurfaced during a CNN interview on Monday. When pressed by host Kaitlan Collins, Hong said, 'Views can evolve' while emphasizing her background as a chef who values community meals. The post, now deleted, read: 'Cancel Thanksgiving. Should have done this in 1621.'
Additionally, Hong’s past comments on race and 'whiteness' have drawn criticism, including remarks from a 2021 interview where she discussed her biracial son’s identity and her own 'proximity to whiteness.' Conservative commentators have labeled her remarks as 'weirdo racism,' while her campaign has not immediately responded to requests for comment on these latest controversies.
Hong’s policies include expanding mental health care access, with proposals to coordinate social workers, nurses, and peer counselors in Wisconsin neighborhoods. Her campaign has framed her personal experiences as central to her leadership approach, stating, 'My own mental health journey has given me a much deeper sense of empathy and compassion.'
The controversies coincide with broader political debates over mental health awareness and historical narratives, as Republicans have also faced scrutiny over Rep. Tom Kean’s absence for depression treatment. Hong’s opponents have not publicly addressed these latest revelations as of publication.