The Real Reason Socialism Is Surging Across America
Socialism is gaining ground in America, particularly among younger voters. But what’s driving its rise, and what could it mean at the ballot box? On this episode of "Midterm Report," Rob Bluey examines the political and economic forces behind the socialist movement with Brooke Medina of State Policy Network and Dr. Charles Steele of Hillsdale College. Medina reveals the dramatic expansion of the Democratic Socialists of America, from just 21 chapters in 2013 to 204 today, including growth in states such as Florida, Texas, and Kansas. She explains how affordability concerns, community organizing, and younger voters are helping fuel the movement and why DSA influence increasingly extends into state and local politics. Steele explains why he believes socialist policies would fail to solve Americans’ economic concerns. He makes the case for free markets and entrepreneurship, tackling health care costs, government spending, inflation, and even the dramatic decline in the cost of reaching space under more market-oriented approaches. He also offers an optimistic message to young Americans who question whether the American dream is still within reach. CHAPTERS 0:00 Rise of the DSA 1:23 Mapping DSA influence 3:28 Ideology and recruitment 5:23 Appeal to younger voters 7:01 Free market alternatives 9:37 Countering with federalism 12:11 Organizational strategy 15:23 Shifting political norms 17:17 Defending liberty 18:56 Immigration and the west 20:08 The dangers of socialism 22:24 Economic reality of socialism 24:10 Price signals and efficiency 26:31 A vision for the future 28:52 Free market space development 31:52 Healthcare market reforms 33:56 The American dream FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What is the Democratic Socialists of America? The Democratic Socialists of America, or DSA, is a socialist organization that works to advance its political agenda, often through candidates running within the Democratic Party. The DSA has grown from 21 chapters in 2013 to 204 today. Why is socialism gaining popularity in America? There are several factors, including concerns about affordability, a desire for community among younger Americans, and years of grassroots organizing by DSA. The average age of a DSA member fell from 68 in 2013 to 33 in 2017 and beyond. Is DSA's influence limited to liberal cities and blue states? No. DSA's growth has extended into states including Kansas, Texas, and Florida, and socialist candidates are increasingly competing at the state and local levels. Why doesn't socialism work? Dr. Charles Steele says government planners lack the incentives and price signals that businesses and entrepreneurs receive in a market economy. Without those signals, he says, governments can continue directing resources toward activities that fail to create sufficient value. Why does the rise of socialism matter in the midterm elections? DSA's expanding organization matters beyond federal races because socialist candidates are also competing for state