The Stunning Rise of the Democratic Socialists of America

Overview

This episode explores the rise of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) as a significant force in U.S. politics, their recent electoral successes, and the internal and external challenges they face. It delves into the history of socialism in America, the DSA's relationship with the Democratic Party, and the ideological and strategic tensions within the organization as it seeks to define its future.

Notable Quotes

- Are we on the same team? Do we share the same goals? — Charlie Homans, on the existential questions between the DSA and the Democratic Party.

- If these ideas are important to you, why wouldn't you just run on the ideas and shut up about the socialism part? — Charlie Homans, on the challenges of the socialist label in U.S. elections.

- The other scenario is that this functionally destroys the Democratic Party for years and its ability to win an election. — Charlie Homans, on the risks of a DSA presidential candidate.

🗳️ The Rise of the DSA in U.S. Politics

- The DSA has achieved significant electoral victories, with candidates winning primaries across the country, including in traditionally Democratic strongholds and swing states.

- Membership surged after Bernie Sanders’ 2016 presidential campaign, growing from 6,000 to 30,000 in 2017, with a dramatic shift toward younger demographics.

- High-profile wins, such as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s upset victory in 2018 and Zoran Mamdani’s election as New York City mayor in 2025, have cemented the DSA’s influence.

📜 Historical Context of American Socialism

- The episode traces socialism’s roots in the U.S., from Eugene V. Debs and the Socialist Party of America in the early 1900s to the New Deal policies of FDR, which co-opted many socialist ideas.

- The DSA, founded in the 1980s by Michael Harrington, initially functioned more as an intellectual society than a political force, until its resurgence post-2016.

- The tension between influencing policy through existing parties versus pursuing systemic change has been a recurring theme in American socialism.

⚖️ Internal Divisions and Strategic Tensions

- The DSA is a decentralized organization with factions divided over strategy: one group supports working within the Democratic Party, while another prioritizes grassroots activism and labor organizing.

- AOC’s compromises in Congress have made her a polarizing figure within the DSA, highlighting debates over candidate discipline and adherence to the organization’s platform.

- The DSA’s platform includes both mainstream progressive policies (e.g., Medicare for All, Green New Deal) and more radical proposals (e.g., abolishing the Senate, prisons, and police).

🤝 The DSA and the Democratic Party

- The DSA’s success in ousting establishment Democrats has sparked debate within the Democratic Party about whether to embrace or resist the movement.

- Critics argue the DSA’s focus on safe blue districts does little to help Democrats win swing districts or congressional majorities.

- Supporters, like Gavin Newsom, see the DSA as energizing younger voters and revitalizing the party’s base.

🌟 The Future of the DSA and Its National Impact

- The DSA’s long-term influence may hinge on producing a viable presidential candidate who can normalize socialism in mainstream politics.

- Historical parallels are drawn to the Tea Party and MAGA movements, which reshaped the Republican Party, though the DSA lacks a unifying national leader akin to Donald Trump.

- A successful DSA presidential campaign could either mainstream socialist ideas or alienate voters, potentially damaging the Democratic Party’s electoral prospects.