WSJ Opinion: Free Expression Are the Socialists Taking Over the Democratic Party?
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Jul 9, 2025 
William Daley, former Commerce Secretary and White House Chief of Staff, dives into the shifting dynamics within the Democratic Party, particularly the rise of democratic socialists like Zohran Mamdani and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. He expresses concerns over the party's future and potential electoral risks by catering too much to its radical elements. Daley also contrasts the current situation with the GOP's Tea Party movement and discusses which candidates he believes could effectively appeal to the broader electorate, including moderates.
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Socialist Shift Risks Electoral Loss
- Far-left Democratic socialists like Zoran Mamdani pose a risk of alienating centrist voters nationally.
- A socialist takeover of the party risks repeating the Tea Party's extreme takeover of the GOP.
Economic Frustration Fuels Radical Appeal
- Economic frustrations and high cost of living drive voters toward radical ideas like socialism.
- Many lack trust in current Democratic leadership's ability to deliver solutions.
Balance Growth With Fair Taxation
- Democrats should focus on supply-side economic solutions combined with progressive taxation.
- Balancing growth and fairness may better address voters' economic frustrations than socialist policies.