Francesca Hong

Francesca Hong is an American politician and former chef currently serving as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing the 76th Assembly district. A member of the Democratic Party and the Democratic Socialists of America, she has been in office since 2021 and is noted for being the first Asian American legislator in Wisconsin's history. In addition to her legislative role, Hong is actively campaigning for the Democratic nomination for governor of Wisconsin in the upcoming 2026 election.

Early life and career

Francesca Hong was born on November 4, 1988, in Madison, Wisconsin, to parents who immigrated from South Korea. Growing up in Madison, she attended local public schools and graduated from Madison West High School in 2007. Following her high school education, Hong enrolled at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she pursued studies in Spanish and journalism. However, in 2009, she made the decision to leave the university to enter the workforce full-time.

Hong began her career in the culinary field, starting as a dishwasher and gradually advancing to roles such as line cook and sous chef. Her dedication and skill in the kitchen led to her appointment as the executive chef of 43 North, an American bistro in Madison, in 2011. In 2016, she and her then-husband, Matt Morris, opened Morris Ramen, a restaurant that became a notable establishment in the local dining scene. The restaurant operated until its closure in February 2024. In the same year, Hong co-founded the Culinary Ladies Collective, an organization aimed at supporting women in the culinary industry, alongside fellow business owners Tami Lax and Laila Borokhim.

Legislative service

Francesca Hong's political career began in earnest when incumbent state representative Chris Taylor announced in March 2020 that she would not seek re-election. This announcement opened the door for Hong to run for the 76th Assembly district, which is known for its strong Democratic leanings. At the time of her candidacy, Hong did not reside in the district but decided to pursue the opportunity to represent it.

Hong's campaign was characterized by a progressive platform that included opposition to the Madison police union and support for the rights of culinary workers to organize. Her background as a chef and restaurant owner played a significant role in her campaign narrative. In the Democratic primary, she emerged victorious among a field of seven candidates, securing approximately 28% of the vote, which was a margin of 6 percentage points over her closest competitor.

In the general election, Hong faced Republican candidate Patrick Hull and won decisively, marking her entry into the state legislature. She was sworn in on January 4, 2021, making history as the first Asian American member of the Wisconsin Legislature. Following her initial term, Hong was re-elected in 2022 without opposition, further solidifying her position in the Assembly.

During her tenure, Hong has been active in various legislative initiatives. She has sponsored measures aimed at raising the tipped minimum wage and has introduced a bill to establish an Economic Bill of Rights in Wisconsin. Her commitment to environmental issues is evident through her participation in events that raise awareness about clean water. In 2022, after her re-election, she was appointed to the board of directors of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, representing the Assembly minority leader.

In February 2024, Hong advocated for reforms to implement paid family leave in Wisconsin. As the first Asian American legislator, she played a key role in introducing legislation that mandates the teaching of Asian American and Hmong American history in Wisconsin public schools. This initiative was partly motivated by the rise in anti-Asian sentiment during the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing influence of Asian voting blocs in the state. The legislation was signed into law by Governor Tony Evers in April 2024.

In addition to her legislative work, Hong has been involved in national political discourse. During the 2024 Democratic Party presidential primaries, she supported the Uncommitted National Movement, which protested President Joe Biden's policies regarding the Gaza conflict, and she drafted a letter advocating for a ceasefire in the region. In 2024, she also joined the Assembly's Socialist Caucus, aligning herself with a group of lawmakers focused on progressive policies.

In March 2025, Hong supported the Climate Accountability Act, which aimed to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Wisconsin. She continued her advocacy for an Economic Bill of Rights, co-sponsoring a new version of the bill in the 2023–2024 legislative session. Additionally, in May 2025, she established the first Asian Caucus in the State Assembly, collaborating with fellow representatives to enhance the representation and interests of Asian Americans in Wisconsin.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, Francesca Hong has focused on a range of policy issues that reflect her progressive values and commitment to her constituents. Her legislative priorities include labor rights, environmental sustainability, and educational reform. Hong's background as a chef and business owner informs her advocacy for workers' rights, particularly in the culinary industry. She has emphasized the importance of allowing culinary workers to unionize, recognizing the challenges faced by those in the service sector.

Environmental issues are also central to Hong's policy agenda. Her support for initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting clean water reflects her commitment to sustainability and public health. Hong's involvement in community events, such as fundraisers focused on environmental awareness, underscores her dedication to these causes.

Hong represents the 76th Assembly district, which is characterized by its Democratic majority. The district encompasses parts of Madison, a city known for its progressive values and active civic engagement. As a legislator, Hong has sought to address the needs and concerns of her constituents, advocating for policies that promote social equity and economic opportunity.

Looking ahead, Hong is preparing for a significant political challenge as she campaigns for the Democratic nomination for governor of Wisconsin in the 2026 election. Her candidacy positions her as a progressive voice within a competitive primary field, and she has articulated a vision that includes funding for public education and universal childcare. Hong's approach to her campaign reflects her desire to engage with a broad base of voters and to advocate for policies that resonate with the values of her constituents.

In summary, Francesca Hong's journey from a culinary professional to a state legislator illustrates her commitment to public service and advocacy for progressive policies. Her role as the first Asian American member of the Wisconsin Legislature and her ongoing campaign for governor highlight her influence in Wisconsin politics and her dedication to addressing the challenges faced by her community.