Kathmandu— The United States is experiencing a resurgence of socialist ideals, evidenced by an increasing number of elected officials identifying with the ideology. While over 1,000 socialists held public office during the early 20th century, today’s movement includes three members of Congress – Senator Bernie Sanders and Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Rashida Tlaib – alongside mayors in cities like New York and Montpelier, Vermont. This growth is fueled by a combination of factors including dissatisfaction with mainstream political parties, concerns about economic inequality, and a desire for more socially conscious policies.

Expanding Socialist Representation

Zohran Mamdani’s election as mayor in New York City in 2025 highlighted the growing trend, joining Katie Wilson in Seattle and Emma Mulvaney-Stanak in Montpelier as socialist mayors. The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) claim around 250 elected officials affiliated with their organization, while other groups like the Working Families Party and Green Party also contribute to the movement’s expansion. In the 2026 primary elections, DSA-endorsed candidates achieved victories in 35 races, including several upsets against established incumbents.

Key Electoral Victories

Several notable candidates backed by socialist organizations secured wins in recent elections. Christopher Rabb was re-elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, while Claire Valdez won a seat in New York’s 7th Congressional District. Darializa Avila Chevalier unseated Rep. Adriano Espaillat in New York's 13th District and Brad Lander defeated incumbent Dan Goldman in the 10th District. Further wins included Abdul El-Sayed securing the Democratic nomination for Senate in Michigan, Melat Kiros defeating U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette in Colorado, Adam Bojak winning a primary for the New York State Assembly, Maurice Brown taking a seat in the 129th state Assembly District, and Janeese Lewis George poised to win the mayoral race in Washington, DC.

Demographic Shifts Within the Movement

Analysis of voter demographics reveals distinct differences between self-identified socialist Democrats and supporters of Donald Trump. A Navigator Research poll from August 2026 found that Socialist Democrats tend to be younger – with 57% aged 18-44 compared to 48% of MAGA Republicans aged 55 and up. They also lean towards white-collar jobs (36%) while MAGA Republicans are more likely to hold blue-collar positions (34%). While both groups are majority white, Socialist Democrats exhibit greater diversity with 26% identifying as Black and 17% as Latino.

Evolving Definition of Socialism

The current iteration of American socialism differs from historical models. Many identify not only as socialists but also as Democrats or progressives, viewing the ideology as compatible with existing political frameworks. Ravi Mangla of the Working Families Party emphasized that voters are seeking candidates “who’s gonna be on their side,” rather than strict ideological alignment. Some, like NYC’s Mamdani and Washington’s Lewis George, identify as “sewer socialists” prioritizing responsive government services over broader economic critiques.

Broader Economic and Political Context

The rise of Socialism 2.0 coincides with growing concerns about income inequality, the climate crisis, and perceived failures of traditional political establishments. Economist Robert Reich has even described some of former President Trump’s economic policies as “national socialism,” citing increased government investment in private corporations without congressional oversight. Federal spending on healthcare is projected to increase significantly, while the top 1% of American households control a substantial portion of the nation's wealth.

The growing appeal of socialist ideas suggests a potential long-term shift in American political discourse and policy priorities, though the movement remains diverse and its future direction uncertain.

(With inputs from CounterPunch)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.