Francesca Hong Enters 2026 Democratic Primary for Wisconsin Governor

Francesca Hong, the first Asian American elected to the Wisconsin Legislature, has entered the 2026 Democratic primary for governor. She joins a crowded Democratic primary to replace Governor Tony Evers, who chose not to run for a third term.

Hong, 37, understands the impact of representation and what it means for the Asian American community across the state. “For me, it’s been more important not to be the last than the first,” she said. “For the community, it’s important to see someone they can identify with running for higher office, and more importantly, it inspires them to consider running themselves.”

Launching a grassroots campaign, Hong says this moment demands building a movement centered on working-class people. She is championing a non-traditional effort that invests in people power and community organizing, a campaign focused on the many, not the money.

“The people have been divided and distracted by elected officials not focused on serving the most underserved communities,” she said.

The campaign focused on the most pressing issues of Wisconsinites, and rising costs were at the top of the list.

“We’re focusing on having an agenda that is not just about affordability but permanent affordability,” explained Hong. “Our agenda is on universal childcare, funding public schools, paid leave, and healthcare. We’re also hearing from folks that there are deep concerns around affordable housing, AI data centers, as well as ICE.”

As a professional chef and small business owner, Hong believes businesses need access to capital that is flexible and helps small businesses not just have opportunities for growth but to sustain.

“We are looking at creating a state-run public bank, and with a public bank, much like what they’re proposing in San Francisco and what has been working in North Dakota,” Hong said. “We can offer small businesses lower interest rates on loans as well as have capital and financing available for affordable housing projects and also affordable commercial buildings, where small businesses won’t be facing rising rents and have a way to combat rising costs.”

Inquiring how Hong’s experience in the State Assembly can bring elements that can aid in making her an effective leader, she responded, “To me, leadership means fostering leadership in others, including elected officials across our administration by giving them the resources to build power and influence,” Hong said. “I wouldn’t be able to fight for the policies as well if we have a split legislature, which is why I’m focused on building a Democratic trifecta to undo over 16 years of Republican control and pass policies that improve the lives of all Wisconsinite.

The Democratic primary in Wisconsin will take place on August 11, 2026, with the 2026 Wisconsin gubernatorial election scheduled for November 3, 2026.