Democratic Socialists of America sees growth and internal division

The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) is experiencing significant activity across different regions in the United States. In the South Bay, the Silicon Valley chapter has seen membership grow by nearly 40% over the past year, reaching more than 800 members. This growth has enabled the group to organize for various progressive causes, including opposition to a planned federal immigration facility near Gilroy and support for local healthcare funding measures.

In Los Angeles, the organization is facing internal division regarding the mayoral campaign of Councilwoman Nithya Raman. Two factions within the DSA, Reform & Revolution and Bread & Roses, have proposed a resolution that could lead to Raman’s expulsion from the organization. The dispute centers on her positions regarding Israel and Palestine, with the factions demanding stricter adherence to the group’s anti-Zionist principles. The endorsement for Raman was not unanimous, with approximately 64% of participating members supporting her bid to unseat Mayor Karen Bass.