Wisconsin Gov. Candidate Hong Faces Backlash Over ‘Cancel Thanksgiving’ Comment—Even From Democrats
Francesca Hong, the leading Democratic contender for governor of Wisconsin, did not explicitly say “yes” or “no” when CNN’s Kaitlan Collins asked if she stands by a post she made six years ago to “cancel Thanksgiving.”
In the Wisconsin governor race, Democratic frontrunner Francesca Hong faced criticism over her now-deleted 2020 social media post advocating for a "cancel Thanksgiving." Hong suggested that the holiday, which she sees as a celebration of colonialism, should be abandoned, comparing its origins to the spread of diseases from settlers to Indigenous populations.
This controversial stance sparked backlash from some Democrats, including former Obama adviser David Axelrod, who expressed concern that such views could hinder Hong's chances of winning the gubernatorial primary. Republican candidate Tom Tiffany, running in the state's Republican primary, further criticized Hong, accusing her of attempting to "destroy the traditions and culture that unite us."
Hong defended her stance in a recent interview, explaining that while Thanksgiving holds personal significance for her due to her culinary background, she also acknowledged its painful nature for many in the community. She stressed that her views have evolved and that her experience as a chef would enable her to bring more people together as governor.
Despite the controversy, Hong remains the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination, holding 38% support in recent polls.
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