Wisconsin state Representative Francesca Hong, currently leading the Democratic gubernatorial primary, faces criticism due to her views on some of America’s major holidays. Social media posts have surfaced, showcasing her contentious opinions.
Hong, affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America, suggested in November 2020 that Thanksgiving should be “canceled” to stop celebrating colonialism, referring to it as the “original superspreader event” that harmed Indigenous people. Later, she retracted this statement amid backlash, calling Thanksgiving her “favorite holiday.”
Her critiques are not limited to Thanksgiving. On Valentine’s Day 2022, she mentioned missing work in a restaurant, except on Valentine’s Day, because she felt the day highlighted the neglect of service work’s emotional and physical labor. She criticized the celebratory aspects driven by capitalism.
In 2019, Hong expressed her disdain for Halloween, refusing to work during the holiday and suggesting she would turn away those in costume. Six years later, she reinforced her dislike, making Halloween the only topic she avoided discussing publicly.
Her posts have drawn sharp reactions. Some have humorously branded her a “Grinch,” implying a dislike for holidays. An anonymous user even coined the term “grinchmaxxing.”
Independence Day celebrations haven’t escaped Hong’s scrutiny. She questioned the timing of fireworks in 2020 and expressed her general dislike for them a year earlier.
If Francesca Hong had the explicit goal to attack storied institutions to turn off as many normal people as possible, she wouldn’t be doing anything different,
Republican commentator Steve Guest wrote about her opinions on social media. Such remarks highlight the polarized response to Hong’s views.
Some speculate her views extend to Christmas. Although pointing to a post where a Christmas tree background made her feel “slightly attacked,” she has often expressed joy in celebrating Christmas.
The political landscape remains divided, with conservatives accusing Democrats of attacking Christmas, a claim liberals consistently reject.
Responses to Hong’s holiday critiques vary; some find her candor refreshing. Val Thomason, a Las Vegas DSA member, remarked, “Tbh this doesn’t make me dislike her at all, she has character.” Others contribute this narrative to her unique persona.
Attempts to reach the Hong campaign for comments were unsuccessful as of Wednesday.
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