Francesca Hong, a candidate for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination in Wisconsin, defended her membership in the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) while distancing herself from some of its proposals during an interview on 'America’s Newsroom' on July 31, 2026. Hong was questioned about her past support for policies such as defunding the police and abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). She acknowledged her membership in the DSA since 2020 but stated that she disagrees with certain extreme proposals, including abolishing the Senate and the Supreme Court.
When asked about her previous calls for police abolition, Hong indicated that her views have changed, asserting that as governor, she would not defund the police. She emphasized the need for public safety and expressed her opposition to cutting resources for law enforcement. Hong's past comments on social media regarding police abolition were highlighted, particularly in the context of her reaction to the decision not to charge a police officer involved in the shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha.
Polling suggests that Hong is a strong contender for the Democratic nomination, despite scrutiny over her past statements. She has received support from local DSA chapters and prominent Democratic figures, including Representatives Ilhan Omar and Ro Khanna.