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America doesn’t like socialism. So why are socialists winning?
Anthony Chan, a former JPMorgan chief economist, says some business leaders who opposed New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani are now using city-backed free childcare programmes. He argues this reflects a gap between fears about democratic socialism and its practical effects, and may help explain why socialist candidates are gaining support.
The article says the Democratic Socialists of America are building national influence ahead of 2028, with growing organisation and financial backing. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a prominent ally, is weighing a presidential run; supporters say the movement’s infrastructure could strengthen a left-wing candidate, but it must show it can deliver.
In short
- Some former Mamdani opponents now use free childcare.
- Democratic socialists are organising for 2028.
- Ocasio-Cortez is weighing a possible presidential run.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters argue that policies such as city-backed childcare can deliver tangible help with family costs, even to people who opposed the politicians advancing them. They see growing organisation and public support as evidence that democratic socialism can turn unmet needs into practical programmes and broaden political participation, provided its candidates demonstrate they can govern effectively.
The case against
Critics argue that the popularity of a useful service does not establish that democratic socialism as a broader programme is affordable or effective, and that the article’s childcare example cannot answer those questions. They may also worry that a stronger national movement and a possible presidential bid could advance policies with wider economic costs or implementation risks, so electoral success should depend on scrutiny of the full platform and its record.
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