Francesca Hong’s Controversial Holiday Views Stir Debate

Wisconsin state Representative Francesca Hong, who is leading in the Democratic gubernatorial primary, is facing criticism due to previous social media posts about major American holidays. Hong, affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America, suggested in a November 2020 post that the country should “cancel Thanksgiving.” She cited the celebration of colonialism and its historical impact on Indigenous communities as reasons for her stance. Despite the backlash, Hong later described Thanksgiving as her “favorite holiday.”

Her views extend beyond Thanksgiving. On Valentine’s Day 2022, Hong expressed her discontent with the holiday, criticizing capitalism’s role in dictating expressions of love, which she likened to exploiting service workers’ emotional and physical labor. Some figures on the left often critique holidays such as Thanksgiving, Independence Day, and Columbus Day due to their histories.

Hong has also voiced her objections to Halloween. In a 2019 post, she mentioned avoiding work during Halloween festivities, expressing her preference for people in costume to leave. This sentiment resurfaced in a 2026 post where she reiterated her indifference to the holiday.

Her critical perspective also covers the Independence Day celebrations. In 2020, Hong questioned the absence of a curfew on fireworks, and in 2019, she openly stated disliking them.

Republican commentator Steve Guest argued that Hong’s positions might alienate ordinary people. Her views, however, have found some support. Val Thomason, a Las Vegas DSA member, expressed appreciation for Hong’s character, noting her straightforwardness about holidays.

Despite claims suggesting a dislike for Christmas, Hong has publicly celebrated the holiday in past posts. This feedback contributes to a broader conversation regarding the so-called “war on Christmas,” a charge often directed at Democrats by conservatives.

The Hong campaign has not issued a comment in response to these criticisms.