Democratic Socialism Gains Ground Among US Democrats

A new poll shows that roughly two‑thirds of Democratic voters now have a favorable view of socialism, while support for capitalism among the same group has fallen to about 42%. The poll also notes a +17 net favorability rating for the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) versus a +4 rating for congressional Democrats.

Recent elections illustrate the trend: Zohran Mamdani was elected mayor of New York City in 2025, Seattle elected Katie Wilson, and Janeese Lewis George won the Washington, D.C., mayoral primary, positioning her as the likely next mayor. These victories follow earlier successes for members of the so‑called “Squad” and signal growing acceptance of socialist candidates within traditionally safe Democratic strongholds.

Analysts link the shift to a broader decline in enthusiasm for capitalism among Democrats, marking a notable realignment within the party.