What to Know About the Democratic Socialists of America

The Democratic Socialists of America, the largest socialist organization in the U.S. with over 100,000 members across all 50 states, has grown into one of the country's most influential progressive groups over the past decade. Though many DSA-backed candidates run as Democrats, the organization is independent and endorses candidates, advocates progressive policies, and mobilizes volunteers. Recent electoral successes—including the elections of New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani—have raised its profile, though former Rep. Cori Bush's primary loss this week underscores persistent mainstream Democratic resistance and limits to its reach.

The DSA encompasses ideologically diverse members ranging from pragmatic organizers to democratic socialists and Marxists, creating ongoing debates about its direction: whether to work within the Democratic Party or operate independently, and which candidates merit endorsement. A July CNN poll found one-third of Democrats identify as democratic socialists, reflecting growing interest in progressive politics that has fueled the organization's rapid expansion.