Bad Faith Episode 487 Promo - Elite Panic (w/ David Sirota)
Jun 30, 2025
This time, David Sirota, founder of The Lever and former Bernie Sanders speechwriter, dives into the surprising electoral success of Socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani. He challenges the narrative of centrist politicos who claim they were 'right all along' and critiques their attempts to co-opt Mamdani's win. Sirota discusses the shifting dynamics within the Democratic Party, highlighting the tension between its centrist and leftist factions, and reflects on the rising populist sentiments that are reshaping political strategies.
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Elite Panic Over Mamdani's Win
- The Mamdani mayoral race revealed elite panic because the oligarchy lost despite using traditional election-buying tactics.
- This panic signals a potential loss of elite control over high-profile political outcomes.
Centrist Co-optation of Victory
- The centrist Democratic Party attempts to co-opt Mamdani's win despite having opposed his politics for years.
- This reflects their desire to retain influence and depoliticize his substantive policy agenda.
Centrist Bargain Limits Progressives
- A typical bargain allows Democratic centrists to give rising stars fame so long as they moderate their policies.
- This gatekeeping protects centrist power and limits progressive policy pushes.