David Axelrod suggests that Francesca Hong’s loss in the Wisconsin primary could benefit fellow progressive Abdul El-Sayed, highlighting divisions within the Democratic Party.
David Axelrod, a prominent strategist behind President Barack Obama’s campaigns, has stirred controversy with his recent comments regarding the upcoming Democratic primary in Wisconsin. He believes that the political landscape would be more favorable for other progressives if Francesca Hong were to lose her bid for the gubernatorial nomination.
In a post on X, Axelrod stated, “It would be good for Abdul El-Sayed if Francesca Hong loses her bid to become the Democratic nominee in Wisconsin next week. He is a serious person. She is a font of zany liberal, faculty lounge exotica.” He expressed concern that Republicans would attempt to link El-Sayed and Hong as ideological allies, potentially undermining his campaign.
Axelrod’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment within the Democratic Party, suggesting that not all progressives are viewed equally. Some candidates, like Hong, are seen as potential liabilities, even among their own ranks. In response to Axelrod’s comments, Hong criticized the consultant class, stating, “This tweet is a perfect example of why the consultant class keeps losing elections. They’re totally clueless, and they’re hellbent on keeping working-class people out of politics.”
Hong, a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, has positioned herself firmly within the progressive camp, advocating for a range of policies including universal childcare, a $20 minimum wage, and the abolishment of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). She also supports granting state-issued IDs to noncitizens, establishing publicly run grocery stores, and opposing continued U.S. support for Israel.
A self-identified socialist, Hong has garnered the backing of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). Her campaign has not only focused on economic issues but has also engaged with cultural and social topics that have sparked debate. Recently, she faced backlash for past statements suggesting that Americans should cancel Thanksgiving due to its colonial history, as well as calls to defund the police and abolish the Senate following the impeachment acquittal of former President Trump in 2021.
Despite the scrutiny, Hong has remained steadfast in her identity as a democratic socialist. “I’m a proud democratic socialist. I’m not advancing a brand. I’m focusing on the policies, the socialist policies that improve lives,” she told NOTUS last week.
As the primary election approaches, Hong’s campaign has not responded to inquiries regarding Axelrod’s comments or whether she believes Republicans will leverage her positions to discredit other progressive candidates. Initially considered a dark horse, Hong’s campaign gained traction following the withdrawal of Mandela Barnes, the former lieutenant governor, who was seen as a frontrunner due to his connections and name recognition.
With Barnes out of the race, Hong and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley have emerged as the primary contenders. Crowley has received an endorsement from outgoing Governor Tony Evers, who praised his public service record. The primary election is set for next Tuesday, August 11, and if Hong secures victory, she will advance to the general election scheduled for November 3.
As the political landscape evolves, the dynamics within the Democratic Party continue to shift, revealing a complex interplay between different factions and their respective visions for the future.
According to Fox News, the outcome of this primary could significantly impact the direction of progressive politics in Wisconsin.