Wisconsin Candidate Francesca Hong Addresses Endorsement Questions

Francesca Hong, a Democratic socialist running in Wisconsin’s gubernatorial primary, responded on Monday to inquiries about the lack of endorsement from progressive figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders. Despite their absence of support, Hong expressed admiration for both lawmakers, emphasizing their efforts to help Democrats succeed in the upcoming midterms. She mentioned her eagerness to discuss future strategies with them.

When asked whether the absence of endorsements suggested doubts about her ability to win, Hong clarified that gubernatorial elections differ from federal ones.

A Wisconsin supporter exclaimed, “Hong is the solution to affordability issues here,” as the primary approached.

During an interview on ABC’s “This Week,” Jonathan Karl questioned Ocasio-Cortez about endorsing Hong. The congresswoman explained her focus on reclaiming Congress and the House to increase Democratic chances in the Senate, indicating no endorsement in the race.

Karl also brought up Hong’s past controversial comments. Ocasio-Cortez acknowledged that Hong has clarified her current positions to voters and shifted from earlier remarks. Laughing, she mentioned a city councilman who referred to early “wokeness” as “crazy,” stressing the importance of evaluating current statements.

In response to this comment about “wokeness,” Hong emphasized ongoing societal awareness. She highlighted policies aimed at helping the working class, such as taxing the very wealthy, creating a moratorium on data centers, raising wages, supporting universal childcare, and fully funding public schools.

The Democratic primary in Wisconsin also features candidates like Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, state Sen. Kelda Roys, and former Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Administration Joel Brennan. Alex Nitzberg wrote this piece for Fox News Digital.