A recent Marquette Law School poll shows Francesca Hong, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), leading the Wisconsin Democratic primary for governor with 26% support among likely voters. The primary is scheduled for Tuesday, August 11, 2026.

Hong, a Democratic state lawmaker and socialist candidate, is competing in a crowded Democratic field aiming to succeed the retiring Democratic governor. The poll indicates that nearly half of those surveyed remain undecided.

In the general election outlook, Hong trails the likely Republican nominee, with Ron Johnson polling second at 15% in the survey. The race is part of a broader ideological contest within the Democratic Party in key Midwestern battleground states, including a notable Democratic Senate primary in Michigan.

Former Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley reentered the Wisconsin governor's race after another candidate, Rodriguez, suspended her campaign. Hong was seen engaging with voters at a retirement home in Madison, Wisconsin, on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.

The poll underscores the ongoing political dynamics in Wisconsin, a critical swing state, as candidates from different wings of the Democratic Party vie for influence ahead of the 2026 elections.

Sources