Democratic socialists affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) have been defeating moderate Democrats in U.S. primary elections in 2026, increasing their political influence ahead of November's general elections [1, 2, 3, 4]. The Michigan Democratic primary on August 4 will pit progressive Abdul El-Sayed, endorsed by Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, against moderate Haley Stevens, who is backed by Senator Chuck Schumer [1, 3, 4]. The victor will face former Republican Mike Rogers in a key November Senate race likely to impact control of the chamber [1, 3, 4].

A Reuters/Ipsos poll surveying 1,248 U.S. adults with a margin of error of ±3 points found that only 49% of Americans say they understand democratic socialist policies, while 47% say they do not, reflecting mixed awareness of the movement nationwide [1, 2, 3, 4]. Just 27% believe democratic socialists have at least some good ideas, whereas 51% say they have few or none and 20% are unsure [1, 2, 3, 4]. This public perception parallels views on President Trump's MAGA Republicans, with 27% seeing some good ideas and 57% few or none [1, 2, 3, 4].

El-Sayed advocates progressive policies like Medicare for All, aiming for a government-run universal health plan that replaces most private coverage. He has described himself as "a progressive candidate, not a socialist" [1]. Stevens supports expanding insurance subsidies while preserving private insurance [1, 3, 4].

The DSA, formed in 1982 by a merger of two groups, counts Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez as prominent members. Ocasio-Cortez's 2018 surprise primary victory boosted the organization's profile; some view her as a potential 2028 presidential contender [1, 2, 3, 4]. Unlike communism, which seeks to abolish private property and create a classless society, the DSA advocates achieving progressive change through elections; its members reject communist ideology [2, 3, 4].

Former President Donald Trump and his allies have tried to portray Democrats as "hardcore, godless communists" and tied some left-wing U.S. groups to Cuba, claims deemed false by multiple sources [2, 3, 4].

The August 4 primary in Michigan will test the strength of democratic socialism in U.S. politics ahead of November’s general election for Senate control [1, 3, 4].