Socialism has made a striking impact in American politics, particularly as demonstrated in the 2025 elections. The Democratic Socialists of America celebrated a significant victory when New Yorkers elected Zohran Mamdani as the city’s new mayor. This success is more than just a win; it signals a shift towards socialist ideals within a major American metropolis.
Mamdani’s election marked a defining moment in the ongoing struggle against what his supporters term the “oligarchy.” He emphasized this sentiment, declaring, “Through Zohran’s victory, the people defeated the oligarchy; the working class defeated major corporations.” This statement encapsulated the essence of his campaign, which resonated deeply with voters yearning for change.
The year started with political figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez igniting passions among Democrats during their “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, following disappointing electoral outcomes in 2024. Their rallies provided a backdrop for the rise of candidates such as Mamdani and fellow socialist Katie Wilson in Seattle. Wilson’s eventual victory over incumbent Mayor Bruce Harrell underscored the movement’s growing influence, particularly on the West Coast.
Both Mamdani and Wilson campaigned on an agenda of affordability and public welfare, advocating for initiatives like universal childcare and the establishment of city-run grocery stores. These proposals highlight a stark departure from traditional governance models, aiming instead to reshape local economies for the benefit of working-class citizens. Wilson articulated a vision for her city, stating, “I want everyone in this great city of ours to have a roof over their head,” indicating a pledge to tackle the housing crisis directly.
In a promising exchange of support between the two, Mamdani reached out to Wilson, noting, “Seattle voters made their voices heard: they want a new kind of politics — one that rejects corporate PAC money and delivers for working people.” This focus on grassroots movements, free from corporate influence, appears to be a unifying theme among progressive candidates.
However, the road ahead remains complicated, especially for Mamdani, who will need cooperation from moderates like Governor Kathy Hochul to advance his tax plans. Hochul received a tepid reception from Mamdani’s supporters, who chanted “Tax the rich!” during her speech, illustrating the tensions between different factions within the Democratic Party. This tension suggests that while socialist candidates are gaining traction, they may face significant hurdles in implementing their agendas.
On the other hand, the socialist tide has not swept across all American cities. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, for example, secured re-election amid a crowded field that included Omar Fateh, a progressive endorsed by the DSA. Despite drawing comparisons to Mamdani, Fateh’s attempt to unseat a moderate incumbent did not succeed. This outcome reveals that while some areas embrace socialist rhetoric, others may not be ready for such a shift.
As new progressive candidates begin eyeing the 2026 midterms, the future of socialism in American politics remains uncertain. The victories in New York and Seattle could be indicative of a larger trend, but challenges loom on the horizon, particularly in areas where voters may not subscribe to these increasingly radical policies.
The prevailing question now is whether this recent socialist momentum will sustain itself. With increasing calls for reform and a growing electorate demanding change, one thing is clear: the political landscape is evolving, and the impact of these movements will be felt for some time to come.
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