Democratic socialist Wisconsin governor candidate draws backlash with 'cancel Thanksgiving' post

Wisconsin state Rep. Francesca Hong, a leading candidate in the Democratic primary for governor, is facing renewed scrutiny after conservative media outlets highlighted a years-old social media post calling to "cancel Thanksgiving" alongside a previously public discussion of her mental health diagnosis.

Hong, a Democratic Socialist representing Madison in the Wisconsin Assembly, has gained momentum in the race following the withdrawal of former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes. Recent polling has placed her near the top of the Democratic field ahead of the Aug. 11 primary.

The latest controversy centers on a November 2020 social media post in which Hong wrote, "Cancel Thanksgiving. Should have done this in 1621."

She continued: "If it takes a worldwide pandemic for us to realize we should stop celebrating colonialism and the original superspreader event that killed indigenous folx and women, so be it." 

The post has since been deleted but resurfaced as her gubernatorial campaign has gained national attention.

The renewed attention follows earlier criticism over some of Hong's previous political positions, including calls to abolish ICE and defund police, views she has addressed during recent television interviews while arguing that her campaign is focused on affordability, education and health care.

Separately, comments Hong made years ago discussing her mental health have been circulating on social media. During an interview, Hong said she had previously been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and described experiencing a mental health crisis.

"I was diagnosed with bipolar disease. I was taking SSRIs and I'd overdosed on lithium," Hong said while recounting that period of her life.

Hong has spoken publicly about her diagnosis in the context of advocating for greater awareness of mental illness and improved access to mental health care. 

The resurfaced posts come as Hong's campaign has drawn increased national attention. A member of the Democratic Socialists of America, she has campaigned on expanding public education funding, universal child care and other progressive priorities, while Republicans have sought to portray her as too radical for elected office.