World news and discussion on TalkFuse.
Disillusioned by identity politics, the American left rediscovers socialism
The article describes a shift within the US left towards economic inequality and class politics, after years in which Democratic campaigning often focused on representation and minority rights. It argues that socialist ideas are gaining traction among voters and candidates, while critics on the left say identity-focused messaging failed to build a broad working-class coalition.
The shift has roots in the 2008 financial crisis, Occupy Wall Street and Bernie Sanders’s campaigns, and has been reinforced by Zohran Mamdani’s rise and Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) candidates’ primary wins. A poll found 58% of Democratic voters viewed socialism positively, while 39% of Americans would consider a socialist presidential candidate; the DSA has 120,000 members. The article says proposals often centre on universal healthcare, housing and living costs, but socialists still face questions about electoral reach, weak unions and how to broaden their appeal.
In short
- US left politics is placing renewed emphasis on class and economic inequality.
- DSA-backed candidates have made gains in Democratic primaries.
- Socialists still face hurdles in building a broad working-class coalition.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters argue that centring class and economic inequality addresses pressures shared by many people, including high housing, healthcare and living costs. Universal programmes could build a broader coalition than appeals framed mainly around representation, while giving voters practical reasons to support socialist candidates.
The case against
Critics argue that class-based campaigning may not by itself overcome weak unions, limited electoral reach or doubts about how socialist policies would work in practice. They also contend that economic solidarity should complement attention to discrimination and minority rights, rather than displace issues that continue to shape people’s lives.
Explained simply
The American left includes Democrats and activists who argue for reducing inequality and expanding public services. Socialism can mean different things in the US, but candidates using the label often support measures such as universal healthcare and more affordable housing.
The 2008 financial crisis and the Occupy Wall Street movement drew attention to wealth and economic power. Bernie Sanders’s presidential campaigns later helped make these issues more prominent, while the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) has organised candidates and members around them.
Some Democrats have focused on representation and minority rights; critics argue this did not build a broad enough coalition among working-class voters. The renewed emphasis on class raises questions about how far socialist candidates can appeal beyond their existing base, especially with unions relatively weak.
Americas Art Culture Geopolitics Politics World