Francesca Hong’s Impact on Wisconsin’s Gubernatorial Race

Democratic socialist Francesca Hong has significantly advanced her position in Wisconsin’s Democratic primary for governor. Her candidacy represents a crucial test for the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) in a battleground state. Historically, the DSA’s successes have been restricted to strong Democratic regions like New York City, Philadelphia, and Denver. A victory for Hong in this context could challenge perceptions of the DSA’s electability in politically diverse areas such as Wisconsin.

Wisconsin’s political scene is remarkable for its narrow election results. In 2024, President Donald Trump secured victory in the state by less than one percentage point, marking the closest margin of victory in the country.

Many within the Democratic Party express concerns about whether a progressive candidate like Hong might jeopardize their chances in the general election. They worry this could occur despite favorable conditions stemming from former President Trump’s declining national popularity. The Wisconsin Democratic primary is scheduled for August 11, 2026.

Francesca Hong Leads New Wisconsin Poll

A recent State Navigate poll indicates Hong is leading with 44% support among likely voters. Trailing her, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley holds 15%, while former Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes has 14%. Another 13% of respondents are undecided. The poll surveyed 1,085 likely voters from July 23-26, 2026, with a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.

Anthony Chergosky, a political science professor at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, noted Hong’s effective grassroots and online-focused campaign. Her approach distinguishes her in a fragmented field where no clear anti-Hong candidate has emerged.

Kathleen Dolan, a political science professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, commented on the polling methodology. She pointed out that this particular poll was conducted via text, potentially skewing results towards more partisan respondents.

A spokesperson for Crowley emphasized the large number of undecided voters. Governor Tony Evers, endorsing Crowley, warned against Republican interference in the Democratic primary.

What Do Other Polls Show?

Other polls have shown Hong in the lead, yet many Wisconsin voters remain undecided. A Marquette Law School poll placed Hong’s support at 26%, with Barnes at 15% and the now-withdrawn Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez at 11%. In this poll, 45% remained undecided. Conducted from July 8-16, 2026, it involved 430 Democratic voters.

Public Policy Polling, sponsored by Crowley’s campaign, reports Hong with 35%, Barnes with 15%, and Crowley with 14%. This survey targeted 708 likely voters from July 21-22, 2026.

To win, a Wisconsin primary candidate needs a plurality. This means Hong could secure the primary victory without exceeding 50% if votes split among multiple candidates.

Democrats’ Anxiety Grows Over Francesca Hong

Growing concerns within the Democratic Party focus on Hong’s DSA affiliation and progressive policies. Worries persist that these might distance moderate voters. Democratic strategist David Axelrod likened the risks in Wisconsin to a potential disaster for the party’s prospects in House races.

Shannon Watts, an activist, highlighted that Democratic gains in the Wisconsin assembly and Senate hang in the balance. Former Democratic Party of Wisconsin chair Joe Wineke criticized Hong as a far-left candidate whose policies might falter in a general election.

Professor Chergosky sees Wisconsin as a test for DSA candidates beyond major urban centers. The Marquette poll suggests Hong faces difficulties with swing voters due to her controversial opinions on police funding.

Hong’s past statements, such as her 2020 support for defunding the police, provide an evident Republican attack strategy. The Marquette poll showed a tied result between Hong and Republican Tom Tiffany at 44% each. Other Democrat candidates like Barnes and Rodriguez showed slightly better performance against Tiffany.

Wisconsin’s Political Dynamics and Rodriguez’s Exit

Rodriguez’s campaign concluded around financial troubles, prompting Crowley’s re-entry into the race. Governor Tony Evers supported Crowley as Democrats sought a more centrist candidate. Wisconsin’s intricate political landscape has been defined by narrow victories and losses in recent presidential elections.

The state’s dynamics shifted as Republicans gained ground among rural voters previously loyal to President Barack Obama. Democrats concentrated efforts on urban strongholds such as Milwaukee and Madison, and suburbs where support is emerging.

Hong holds DSA support, promoting a vision where people influence key economic sectors. Her stance encourages policies like single-payer healthcare and the Green New Deal. Democratic socialism, as advocated by the DSA, insists on revolution through democratic processes, respecting civil liberties and competitive elections.