Francesca Hong, a single mother and democratic socialist, is running for governor in Wisconsin, a swing state known for its close elections. Her candidacy has turned the Democratic primary into a test of how far left voters are willing to go in the November midterms.
Background
Hong’s campaign focuses on issues like increasing taxes on the wealthy, creating a state-owned bank to fund free healthcare and childcare, and implementing a $20 minimum wage. She has not backed away from her calls to defund and abolish the police, which has raised concerns among some voters.
Wisconsin has a history of socialism, with Milwaukee electing socialist mayors in the past. However, the state’s voters have also supported conservative candidates, including President Donald Trump, who won the state in 2016.
Primary Election
The Democratic primary is scheduled for August 11, and Hong is facing competition from other candidates, including Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes and former nurse Sara Rodriguez. The winner of the primary will likely face Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany in the general election.
Some voters, like John Ravdabaugh, an undecided independent, are considering Hong’s candidacy. Ravdabaugh said he is impressed by Hong’s passion and willingness to take on tough issues, but is concerned about her democratic socialist label.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
