Concerns are growing within the Democratic Party as its leftward shift continues. Some Democrats are now worried that their party is being taken over by radicals, a notion that has long been a concern for conservatives.
The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) has been making significant gains in the 2025-2026 election cycle. In New York, DSA-backed candidates secured major wins in the June 23, 2026, primaries. This includes Congressional victories by Claire Valdez, who won the Democrat nomination for NY-7, and Darializa Avila Chevalier, who defeated longtime incumbent Rep. Adriano Espaillat in a major upset.
State legislative wins also saw DSA candidates emerge victorious in 7 out of 8 races, including several challengers who defeated incumbent representatives. The socialist movement is not limited to New York, with notable wins in Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles.
In Washington, D.C., DSA member Janeese Lewis George secured the primary for mayor and is heavily favored to win in the general election. In Los Angeles, DSA member Nithya Raman advanced to the mayoral runoff. These victories have left establishment Democrats anxious about the party's future.
Establishment Democrats like James Carville and Van Jones have expressed concern about the DSA's growing influence within the party. Carville suggested that it may be time for a schism, while Jones warned that the party must adapt to the new reality by investing in grassroots organizing and community engagement.
Jones emphasized the importance of building a strong, on-the-ground presence, stating that relying solely on TV ads and endorsements will no longer be sufficient. He encouraged moderate Democrats to take action and organize voters in their communities.
The implications of this shift within the Democratic Party remain to be seen, but one thing is clear: the DSA's growing influence will continue to shape the party's platform and policies in the years to come.
