Francesca Hong’s entrance into Wisconsin politics has roots in her experience at a ramen shop in downtown Madison. Together with her then-husband, chef Matt Morris, Hong launched Morris Ramen in December 2016 with restaurateur Shinji Muramoto. This establishment quickly gained prominence in Madison’s dining scene, serving not just as a business venture, but as a significant part of Hong’s public identity, leading her eventually into the political arena. Although the restaurant closed in February 2024, it played a crucial role in Hong’s journey. Hong, now running as the front-runner in the Democratic primary for governor, credits the restaurant as a factor in her political path.
About Matt Morris
Matt Morris grew within Madison’s Japanese dining industry, starting at Restaurant Muramoto under Muramoto’s guidance. He spent substantial time in Japan perfecting ramen-making skills, returning to establish Morris Ramen. Located at 106 King Street, the restaurant was a tribute to his efforts and vision. The connection he shared with Hong extended beyond professional circles; both were Madison natives, offspring of educators, and shared the experience of leaving college without completion.
Francesca Hong and Matt Morris’ Marriage
Hong and Morris met in the vibrant restaurant circles of Madison, where both worked under Muramoto. They wed in 2012 and balanced their family life, particularly after the birth of their son in 2016, with their demanding roles in the restaurant industry. Hong’s dedication saw her resuming her role at Muramoto after a hiatus, where she worked alongside Morris. Despite their eventual divorce, they maintained a partnership in both parenting and business endeavors.
Closure of Morris Ramen
The restaurant’s journey contributed significantly to Hong’s political ambitions. In March 2020, following the implementation of Wisconsin’s stay-at-home order, Morris Ramen closed its dining room. Hong actively advocated for restaurant workers, pushing for policies like eviction protection, rental aid, and forgivable loans. This activism prompted her consideration for public office; she eventually won the Wisconsin 76th Assembly District later that year, becoming the first Asian American in the state Legislature. The closure of Morris Ramen in February 2024 was attributed to rising operational costs, making sustainable wage increases difficult without raising prices. Hong continues to engage in the workforce, identifying herself as the only wage worker in the gubernatorial race.
Current Status of Matt Morris
After the restaurant’s closure, Matt Morris has largely stayed out of the public eye.
Hong’s Electability and Political Landscape
Francesca Hong’s candidacy has stirred debates about electability. The Democratic field and key party figures scrutinize her progressive record, questioning her ability to compete against Republican opponent Tom Tiffany. Governor Tony Evers has stayed neutral, eventually endorsing David Crowley. Criticism targets Hong’s affiliations with Democratic Socialists of America and past social media expressions. Hong, however, separates herself from some DSA positions.
Her campaign focuses on “permanent affordability,” advocating for free childcare, public school funding, higher taxation on the ultra-wealthy, and a moratorium on data centers. While figures like David Axelrod caution against her nomination potentially costing Democrats the state, Hong emphasizes pivotal issues like living costs, public education, and childcare.
Wisconsin’s history of closely contested elections poses challenges in this race. However, Hong leads in five consecutive Marquette University Law School polls. Support remains particularly strong among younger voters and those favorable to democratic socialism. Opposing sentiments towards Trump, reflected in low approval rates, influence the political landscape as parties prepare for the general election on November 3.
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