Democratic socialists are challenging the party establishment
Image: Seth Wenig
Michigan’s Senate race is shaping up as a bellwether for the direction of the Democratic Party, amid a recent power struggle between its progressive wing—led by democratic socialists—and moderate establishment in primary elections across the US.
Abdul El-Sayed, a physician and progressive Democrat backed by Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has emerged as the leading challenger to establishment Democrat Haley Stevens in Michigan, one of America’s most competitive battleground states.
Some quick background: Candidates backed by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA)—a decentralized org that operates as an activist group, rather than a standalone political party—have made notable election gains in recent months.
- In Colorado, 29-year-old Melat Kiros defeated 15-term incumbent Democrat Diana DeGette in a House primary, while fellow DSA member and Pennsylvania state Rep. Chris Rabb won a May primary for US House.
- Political newcomer Graham Platner, who aligned himself with many DSA ideas, also defeated the Democratic establishment in Maine’s Senate primary, before withdrawing due to scandal.
A battle for the party’s future
The recent wave of progressive victories has highlighted a growing divide over what the Democratic Party should look like moving forward.
Many supporters of the Democratic establishment say the party is strongest when it builds broad coalitions that can compete in swing states. They generally favor expanding existing government programs, working within established political institutions, and nominating experienced candidates they believe can appeal to moderates and independent voters.
On the flip side: Many progressives and DSA members say the party should pursue more sweeping changes aimed at addressing affordability and economic inequality.
Members primarily work within the Democratic Party to advocate for working-class power, systemic reforms, and an eventual transition to an economy and society controlled by the working people.
- They support policies such as Medicare for All, expanded childcare, stronger labor protections, higher taxes on the wealthy, and reducing the influence of money in politics.
- DSA members also advocate for an eventual transition from a capitalism-based economy to democratic socialism.
Reality check: With races still unfolding across the country, the full picture of the movement's electoral performance is still developing. The DSA has endorsed ~150 candidates across federal, state, and local races this election cycle, including a handful of House races—but they haven’t officially weighed in on any US Senate contests.
Thus far, 35 of DSA-endorsed candidates have won their primaries or advanced without opposition, 34 have lost, and the others have yet to face voters, per a Washington Examiner tally.
Looking ahead: Michigan's Democratic Senate primary is set for August 4, with the winner advancing to the general election to replace retiring Sen. Gary Peters. A recent poll found El-Sayed and Stevens statistically tied, with ~20% of Democratic primary voters still undecided.
📊 Flash poll: In general, do you support or oppose the recent emergence of the Democratic Socialists of America as a potential challenger to the Democratic Party establishment?
See a 360° view of what pundits are saying →
Sprinkles from the Left
- Some commentators argue that growing economic inequality and frustration with the political status quo is fueling support for a new generation of progressive leaders, arguing that a stronger focus on working-class issues and economic populism is the Democratic Party's best path forward.
- Others contend that the growing influence of progressive candidates reflects a genuine demand for change among Democratic voters, but believe the party must find a way to harness that energy without alienating the moderate voters that often help secure electoral victories.
- “Chin Up: The Left Has a Bright Future” –Chris Wright, Common Dreams
- “Is This Socialist Wave the Left’s Tea Party Moment?” –David M. Drucker, Bloomberg
- “Oops! Fox News is making democratic socialists sound cool.” –Sara Pequeño, USA Today
Sprinkles from the Right
- Some commentators argue that although modern democratic socialists package their ideas in a more practical and relatable way than previous generations, many of their proposals would still require a much larger role for government and significantly higher taxes to fund expanded public programs, which would mean significantly curtailing the middle class’ disposable income.
- Others contend that as democratic socialist candidates gain momentum, the Democratic Party needs to be careful not to embrace ideas that are too far outside the political mainstream, as it could reshape the party in ways that turn off voters.
- “The vibe shift in American socialism” –Megan McArdle, WaPo
- “Democratic Socialists Are on the Rise. We’ve Seen This Movie Before.” –Bret Stephens, NY Times
- “The Rise of the Democratic Socialists” –WSJ Editorial Board
Share this!
Recent Discussion stories
Discussion
| July 10, 2026Graham Platner exits Maine Senate race
Democratic nominee Graham Platner suspended his campaign for Maine's open US Senate seat late Wednesday evening, after losing support from Democratic leaders in the wake of a sexual assault allegation.
Discussion
| July 8, 2026SCOTUS allows age verification for app stores, for now
On Monday, the Supreme Court allowed Texas to begin enforcing a law requiring app stores to verify users' ages and obtain parental consent before anyone under 18 can download a majority of apps.
Discussion
| July 6, 2026Hanging out together is becoming a lost art
The group chat may be doing a little too much heavy lifting for many friend groups, according to new research.
You've made it this far...
Let's make our relationship official, no 💍 or elaborate proposal required. Learn and stay entertained, for free.👇
All of our news is 100% free and you can unsubscribe anytime; the quiz takes ~10 seconds to complete