Donald Trump attacked Democrats as "godless communists" during a speech at the Faith & Freedom Coalition conference on June 26, warning they pose the most serious threat to the United States since its founding 250 years ago [1, 2, 3]. He said, "These are hardcore, godless communists. They're godless communists. All communists are godless. They don't believe in God. This is the most serious threat to our country since its existence. In my opinion, 250 years ago" [3]. Trump called communism a "cancer" permeating the country that must be stopped [2].
Trump specifically targeted progressive candidates in New York backed by democratic socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who had recent primary wins. This includes Claire Valdez and Darializa Avila Chevalier, both victorious in New York congressional Democratic primaries on June 23 [1, 2, 3]. Brad Lander, endorsed by Mamdani but not a Democratic Socialist of America (DSA) member, also won a primary [2, 3]. Trump linked these candidates to communism and warned they would "destroy traditional American values and Christianity," saying they “will close your churches in this country [if] they go communist” and “they want to end religion” [1, 2, 3].
Trump accused the progressives of wanting to "resume the transgender mutilation of children," "attack Christians and churches," and "destroy traditional American life" [1]. He also claimed assassinations of opponents are "a very important element of their ideology," calling communists "animals" [1, 4].
The New York Rent Guidelines Board voted on June 26 to freeze rents on new leases, a decision supported by Mayor Mamdani. Trump condemned the rent freeze, linking it to Mamdani's campaign promises and warning it would lead to slums and decline [3].
However, there is no evidence any self-identifying communists are running or elected under the Democratic Party. The candidates Trump targeted are members of the Democratic Socialists of America, who pursue goals via electoral politics and differ markedly from traditional communism, as noted by experts and sources including Al Jazeera [4].
Earlier in June, Janeese Lewis George, a DSA member, won the Democratic primary for mayor of Washington, D.C. [2]. Trump sarcastically mocked communist promises of free rent and food, saying he would be "the greatest communist in history" before failures ensue [1].
The next major test will be the 2026 US midterm elections, where these contested Democratic candidates will compete for congressional and local offices.
