Centrism did not win the Democratic party the election

Democrats made sweeping gains in the midterms, rebuking Donald Trump’s policies while, the article argues, also signalling dissatisfaction with the party’s centrist status quo. The author says progressive and socialist candidates helped drive the shift, backed by grassroots organising and small donations.

Eight Democratic Socialists of America members won House seats, including three who defeated establishment candidates. The article links their success to organising around immigration and Palestine, and notes growing support among Democrats for abolishing ICE. It also points to voters’ priorities: 68% of registered Democrats said healthcare was extremely important, 85% backed Medicare for All, and 65% prioritised income and wealth distribution.