Dem Candidate Refuses To Condemn Ally Who Promised ‘Free Beer Day’ If Trump Dies

A leading Democratic candidate in Wisconsin’s 2026 gubernatorial primary is facing scrutiny over her ties to a controversial leftwing activist, as questions mount about political rhetoric and judgment in the wake of a recent attempted assassination on President Donald Trump.

State Rep. Francesca Hong, a self-described democratic socialist and one of the few candidates polling in double digits in a wide-open primary, is drawing criticism following comments she made after the attempted shooting tied to the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, and her past association with leftist activist and brewery owner Kirk Bangstad.

In a social media post addressing the incident, Hong condemned political violence broadly but also offered justification of the attack within a wider critique of government and society, “The state enacts political violence on its citizens every day,” she added. “We see it when ICE agents occupy our cities and put children in cages. We see it in a healthcare system that lets people die because they can’t afford care.”

Critics argue that response fell short of directly addressing rhetoric from figures like Bangstad, whose comments following the same incident sparked widespread backlash. Bangstad, owner of Minocqua Brewing Company, wrote in the immediate aftermath of the attempted assassination that he was disappointed the effort had failed. “Well, we almost got #freebeerday,” Bangstad posted. “Either a brother or sister in the Resistance needs to work on their marksmanship … Regardless, we stand at the ready to pour free beer the day it happens.”

The remark was part of a broader pattern of inflammatory rhetoric and activism that has made Bangstad a polarizing figure in Wisconsin politics, including legal battles and defamation cases tied to his conduct.

Hong’s past interactions with Bangstad, including appearing on a podcast with him and previously donating to his efforts, are now drawing renewed attention as she seeks to position herself as a serious statewide candidate.

Americans for Prosperity-Wisconsin State Director Megan Novak sharply criticized Hong’s response and her perceived unwillingness to distance herself.

“It should have been really easy for Francesca Hong to denounce violent political hate coming from someone who’s wildly unpopular with 95% of the state,” Novak said in a statement. “And yet somehow she managed to excuse his behavior with a bunch of platitudes. And I think that’s just unacceptable for someone who wants to be the governor of the state of Wisconsin.”

The controversy comes as the Democratic primary remains unsettled, with multiple candidates competing for a nomination that could shape the state’s political direction in 2026.

Recent polling from Marquette Law School shows that roughly 65% of Democratic voters remain undecided, underscoring just how fluid the race is. While several candidates, including former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, are actively campaigning across the state, only Barnes and Hong have consistently polled above 10%.

Hong has attempted to distinguish herself with a grassroots, activist-oriented campaign style, often emphasizing community organizing and mutual aid over traditional political events. “We are an organizing and community-powered campaign,” Hong said at a recent event. “This is what I hope more politicians will start doing.”

Bangstad, for his part, has built a reputation as an aggressive political operator who blends activism with business, using his brewery as a platform for leftwing messaging and fundraising. His affiliated political organization has raised millions of dollars while also facing scrutiny over opaque and shady spending through his super PAC and legal disputes.

The episode highlights a deeper tension in the race: whether Democratic primary voters will prioritize ideological alignment and far-left activist energy, or gravitate toward candidates with broader appeal in a general election.

With months remaining before the August primary, and a large share of voters still undecided, that question remains unresolved. But as the campaign intensifies, Hong’s ties to controversial figures and her response to moments of political crisis are likely to remain part of the conversation.