The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), a left-wing political group, is now playing an influential role in the U.S. Democratic Party. Founded in 1982, the group spent decades in obscurity until 2016, when independent Senator Bernie Sanders’ unsuccessful bid for the Democratic presidential nomination highlighted disaffection with mainstream Democratic politics and consolidated the party’s left wing.

Key Policies

DSA members have won other high-profile races since then, notably New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The organization now says it is the largest socialist organization in U.S. history, with more than 100,000 members. DSA or its local chapters have endorsed 150 candidates at all levels of government this year, and the group claims 38 wins and 38 losses so far.

DSA calls for state control of major industries and replacing capitalism with a system where “ordinary people have a voice.” The group supports “Medicare for All,” free higher education and early childhood education, universal rent control, and expanded public housing. They also advocate for higher taxes on the wealthy, corporations, inheritances, and private colleges, as well as a 32-hour work week with no reduction in pay or benefits and stronger union protections.

Israel Policy

The DSA has sought to end the Democratic Party’s traditionally robust support for Israel, and the issue has emerged as a sharp dividing line in this year’s primary contests. DSA calls Israel an apartheid state that is conducting a genocide in Gaza and has “fascist” aspirations. They call for an end to all U.S. military and economic aid and weapons sales to Israel and back student efforts to push universities to divest from the country.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.