A Big Gamble for the Left: Can Socialism Appeal in a Swing State?

Francesca Hong, currently a state legislator, is aiming to become governor of Wisconsin. Her ambition is to demonstrate that a democratic socialist can succeed in a battleground state. However, some believe her campaign might inadvertently benefit the Republicans.

Jeff Hanneman, a resident of Wisconsin Rapids, was angered by a proposal to construct a 220-acre data center on the site of a closed paper mill near his home. Concerned about potential pollution to the Wisconsin River, Hanneman, though a Republican and a Trump supporter, decided to back Hong, who has called for halting data center construction.

“I really don’t think or care about the label,” Hanneman remarked. “If she was voted into office, she could do a lot of good things for our state.”

Hong believes she can draw support from Republicans. Meanwhile, progressive politics are experiencing a rise this election cycle. Liberal voters, discontent with the existing Democratic leadership which they regard as outdated and influenced by corporate interests, have been successful in displacing incumbents. Socialism, a term previously avoided by many politicians, is gaining popularity. Candidates endorsing socialism have won House primaries in cities like New York, Denver, and Philadelphia.

Wisconsin, a state Trump won in 2024, poses a significant challenge. If Hong wins her party’s nomination over other strong candidates, she will then face a challenging election against a Republican. This scenario worries some Democrats. They fear moderate and conservative residents of Wisconsin might not support a socialist candidate.