'Run Socialists In Every Primary': Emboldened DSA Turns Its Guns On Fellow Democrats

Authored by Jake Altman via City Journal,

Last week's historic midterm results have emboldened not just the Democratic Party but also the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). The organization expanded its House caucus from two to eight and added a key ally, Abdul El-Sayed, to the Senate. Adding local wins and ballot initiatives, the group touted "50 DSA victories" overall.

Over 50 DSA victories tonight prove socialism can win in the U.S. 

Workers deserve more and a reality where all of us live with dignity and hope is closer than we think.

The job's not done, though. Tomorrow, we continue organizing, fighting, and winning for the working class!

— DSA (@DemSocialists) November 4, 2026

Yet while hopes are running high, the size of the Democratic majority and the DSA's own fractious internal culture pose significant challenges to the organization's ability to capitalize long term. The DSA will face pushback from moderates within the Democratic Party. Moreover, as the organization garners greater public recognition and scrutiny, it risks becoming a political liability for allies - particularl