The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), now the largest socialist organization in U.S. history with 120,000 dues-paying members, is increasingly influencing Democratic primaries. This growth, which saw membership surge from under 7,000 in 2015, is attributed to its strategy of building strong community ties through frequent social events. These activities, ranging from book clubs to parties, serve as a way for members to connect, organize, and engage in political action, filling a void left by declining traditional civic institutions.
The DSA's success is evident in recent election wins. DSA-backed candidates have secured five congressional primaries since June in reliably Democratic districts, including upsets against long-serving incumbents. Notably, Zohran Mamdani's victory in New York City is highlighted as a 'proof of concept' for scaling up such successes nationwide. Other notable wins include Darializa Avila Chevalier and Claire Valdez in New York, and Donavan McKinney in Detroit, who defeated an AIPAC-backed incumbent.
A CNN poll from July found that one-third of Democratic and Democratic-leaning adults identify as democratic socialists, indicating a growing alignment with the movement's values. The DSA provides a grassroots army of volunteers for its candidates, offering crucial support in canvassing and phone banking, which has helped them overcome better-funded rivals. This organizational strength, combined with a focus on issues like livable wages, affordable healthcare, and student debt, resonates with young voters and those frustrated by economic inequalities.
While still a small fraction of registered Democrats, the DSA's ability to mobilize dedicated activists in low-turnout primaries gives them significant leverage. Organizers like Julia Salazar emphasize that electing socialists is not an end in itself, but a means to build a broader movement and collective power. This model of self-organization, emphasizing member engagement and collective action, allows the DSA to punch above its weight in the current political landscape.
