This opinion piece argues that the Democratic Party has lost its ability to rein in its socialist wing, as the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) grows in influence and increasingly challenges, and in some cases eclipses, mainstream Democrats. The author frames this as part of a long American tradition of minor parties pulling major ones in new directions, but suggests the DSA's rise poses a distinct threat because the Democratic establishment no longer has an effective tool, such as control over campaign finance through Super PACs, to keep the movement in check.

The piece traces the Democratic Party's history back to 1828, noting it as the longest-serving major party in US politics, and situates the DSA alongside other historical minor parties such as the Federalists, Whigs, Libertarians and Greens. It points to the DSA's growing profile, including its links to rising political figures, as evidence that the socialist movement is gaining real leverage within Democratic politics that the party establishment is struggling to contain.