The Socialist Program with Brian Becker Mamdani’s Campaign and Socialism’s Comeback in the USA
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Nov 4, 2025 
Richard Wolff, an economist and co-founder of Democracy at Work, dives into the rising popularity of Zohran Mamdani's socialist policies, like taxing the rich, despite elite backlash. He discusses how capitalism inherently creates class struggle and why the ruling class fears the prioritization of workers. Wolff draws parallels between Mamdani and historical socialist figures, and he explores how Mamdani's campaign is already reshaping political dialogue across the country, fueling a resurgence of socialism in the U.S.
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Capitalism Guarantees Class Conflict
- Capitalism structurally creates an ongoing class struggle between the small employer class and the vast majority of workers.
- Richard Wolff argues this conflict explains strikes, boycotts, and why employers fear openly pro-worker politicians.
Upton Sinclair's Campaign As A Cautionary Tale
- Wolff recounts Upton Sinclair's 1934 California campaign as a historical parallel to modern socialist challenges.
- He notes Sinclair won but was defeated by employer mobilization, showing victory is only the start.
Employer Pushback Signals Momentum
- Mamdani's rise reveals employers and corporate media mobilize strongly against explicit pro-worker platforms.
- Wolff sees Mamdani's campaign as proof socialism can openly appeal to large numbers and inspire wider movements.
