The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) is expanding its reach nationwide, with a string of primary victories in key districts. The group's momentum comes after a major upset in Denver, Colorado, where DSA-backed Melat Kiros defeated incumbent Democratic Rep. Diana DeGette in a deep-blue U.S. House district.
Kiros, a 29-year-old former attorney, won the primary with the support of the DSA, which has been gaining traction in recent years. This victory follows a week of primaries in New York City, where DSA-aligned candidates scored wins over establishment-backed contenders. The recent victories have emboldened the progressive left as it takes on the center-left establishment in a high-stakes battle for the future of the Democratic Party.
The Colorado primary was closely watched, as Kiros' win sets the stage for a general election showdown with a Republican opponent. The district, which covers a large portion of Denver, has a strong Democratic lean and was carried by Kamala Harris in the 2024 election by a margin of nearly 56 points.
Kiros' campaign centered on progressive issues, including the abolition of ICE, free Palestine, and universal childcare and Medicare for All. The DSA touted her victory in a social media post, highlighting her commitment to these causes. Kiros' win is seen as a significant upset, as DeGette had been in office since 1997 and was considered a strong incumbent.
The DSA's momentum extends beyond Colorado, with progressive victories in neighboring districts. In the 8th Congressional District, DSA-backed Manny Rutinel won a convincing double-digit victory over former state Rep. Shannon Bird, a more moderate candidate. Rutinel will now face Republican Rep. Gabe Evans in the general election, which is considered a crucial swing seat.
Progressives also scored a victory in the Senate nomination battle between incumbent Sen. John Hickenlooper and former state Sen. Julie Gonzales. Hickenlooper, a former Denver mayor and two-term governor, prevailed in the primary and will now be the clear favorite in the general election against Republican state Sen. Mark Baisley.
The recent primary victories have sparked a debate about the direction of the Democratic Party, with some arguing that the party is becoming too radical. Republicans have seized on the issue, portraying all Democrats as radicals and warning that the party's shift to the left will hurt its chances in the general election.
However, some Democrats see the DSA's momentum as a positive development, arguing that the party needs to move to the left to win over younger voters and energize its base. As one strategist noted, "it is undeniable that progressives have built a coalition and have a message that can serve to buoy a candidate when they are an acceptable alternative to the status quo."
