Democratic Socialists Score Wins in New York and Colorado, Raising Party Power

The Democratic Socialists of America orchestrated primary victories for three candidates in New York and propelled Melat Kiros to unseat a 30-year incumbent in Colorado’s 1st district, underscoring a strategic push to reshape the Democratic Party. At a celebration for Zohran Mamdani’s win, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries was cheered with chants of “You’re next,” reflecting the momentum behind socialist-aligned newcomers.

Established Democrats such as Johnny Olszewski and Chris Murphy voiced cautious support, calling the party a “big tent,” while others like Josh Gottheimer and Adam Smith warned of a dangerous leftward shift. Prominent DSA figures, including David Jenkins and Hazel Williams, openly advocated for communism and revolutionary change, prompting comparisons to historic entryist tactics. Critics, from Republican leaders to economists like Friedrich Hayek, warned that such policies could lead to economic mismanagement and erosion of democratic institutions. The debate now centers on whether the party will accommodate these radical ideas or resist a perceived takeover.