Renee Olstead’s Role in Francesca Hong’s Campaign

Renee Olstead, known as a former child actress and an OnlyFans model, is reported to be taking on a significant role in the campaign for Wisconsin state Rep. Francesca Hong’s gubernatorial run. According to The Heartland Post, Olstead, who is also referred to as Renee Faust, is serving as the deputy campaign manager in Hong’s bid for the governor position.

Olstead’s involvement in political campaigns has been noted since at least January. Her social media profiles and activity affirm her commitment to Hong’s campaign efforts. She has been working on coordinating events and logistics, even for well-known figures like streamer and political commentator Hasan Piker.

“Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday,” stated Hong, addressing past comments about the holiday.

Despite Fox News Digital’s inquiry to Hong’s campaign for specifics on Olstead’s role, the response focused on Olstead’s background. The statement highlighted her experience as a licensed mental health clinician, emphasizing her work with trafficking survivors. The campaign praised her contributions in developing a strong grassroots initiative in Wisconsin.

Olstead’s advocacy extends beyond the campaign. She established the Coalition for American Sex Workers, which aims to decriminalize sex work and push for policy changes. Last year, she was recognized by the Wisconsin State Assembly for her contributions to sex workers’ rights and was named “Penthouse Pet of the Year” in 2024.

Criticism of Olstead’s campaign role has emerged from organizations like Wisconsin Family Action, which questioned her suitability for a leadership position given her background in the sex work industry. This criticism is compounded by questions regarding Hong’s political stances, including past support for progressive measures such as defunding the police and abolishing the U.S. Senate. She has recently sought to clarify or distance herself from previous statements.

As Hong competes in the Democratic primary, she faces opponents such as Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, former Wisconsin Department of Administration Secretary Joel Brennan, and Democratic state Sen. Kelda Roys. Hong remains engaged with allegations and scrutiny about her campaign’s goals and affiliations while maintaining her public statements on various issues.