Jacobin Radio Confronting Capitalism: Economic Populism at a Crossroads
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Nov 19, 2025 
Vivek Chibber, a sociology professor at NYU and editor of Catalyst Journal, delves into the current crisis facing the Democratic Party. He discusses how recent polls reveal that working-class voters favor economic issues over divisive cultural ones. Chibber critiques the party's focus on identity politics, arguing it alienates potential supporters. He explores the tension between centrist strategies and the need for bold, social-democratic reforms to truly engage the electorate and ensure long-term success.
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Wokeness Branded Democrats As Elites
- Democratic strategists now admit 'wokeness' branded the party as an elite out-of-touch formation.
- Reports argue the party must foreground broad economic issues affecting the majority.
Economic Issues Top Voter Priorities
- Polls show voters prioritize economic issues while rejecting narrow cultural topics.
- But support for policies like Medicare expansion is strong even if specific labels (e.g., "Medicare for All") poll worse.
Frame Policy By Tangible Benefits
- Frame policies by outcomes voters want (cheaper drugs, expanded coverage) rather than contested labels.
- Use concrete benefits to avoid losing support over packaging or unrealistic perceptions.