MADISON, Wis. — Democratic gubernatorial frontrunner Francesca Hong is attracting support from progressive leaders across the nation, underscoring the importance of Wisconsin’s 2026 governor’s race and the growing enthusiasm surrounding her campaign to create permanent affordability for working families.
This month, Hong has received endorsements from former Ohio State Senator Nina Turner, co-chair of Senator Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaign and one of the most prominent voices in the national progressive movement, and U.S. Representative Ro Khanna of California, a leading Congressional Progressive Caucus member and co-chair of Sanders’ 2020 campaign.
“Francesca Hong is running on the platform that voters have been clamoring for for years: investment in our communities rather than endless war, universal childcare, paid leave, funded schools, and affordable healthcare,” Khanna said in his endorsement. “She understands that the path forward for Democrats is committing to permanent affordability for working families.”
“When I first met Francesca Hong in 2022, it was clear that she’s not another cautious, politics-as-usual Democrat waiting for permission to lead,” said Turner. “She’s a service worker, a single mom, the daughter of immigrants, a small business owner and a State Representative, where she’s been a tireless fighter for working-class people.”
Hong was also endorsed by Qasim Rashid, a nationally recognized human rights attorney, author, and political commentator. Rashid — who endorsed Hong at her campaign launch in September 2025 — has called Hong “the fighter Wisconsin — and America — needs.”
“I’m so grateful for the support this campaign is receiving from leaders who share our vision for the future,” Hong said. “They’re backing this campaign because they understand the path the Democratic Party needs to take toward bold, working-class leadership that puts families first. This is how we win — not just here, but everywhere.”
