Democratic Socialists of America convenes in Chicago to outline electoral strategy

The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) gathered at Chicago’s McCormick Place for a weekend convention focused on expanding its influence inside the Democratic Party. Organizers highlighted recent primary wins, including two incumbent House members unseated this year and a potential third victory in Michigan, and cited a CNN poll showing roughly one-third of Democrats or Democratic-leaning independents identify as democratic socialists.

DSA co-chair Ashik Siddique told CNN the group’s aim is to help people envision a different society, citing proposals such as a 32-hour work week, universal health care, reparations for slavery and a move toward abolishing police and prisons. The organization also advocated for structural changes, including replacing the Senate with an expanded House and making the judiciary subordinate to Congress.

Membership has risen to about 120,000, surpassing historic levels for American socialist groups. Siddique noted the milestone coincided with Independence Day, a timing he found “conflicted.”

The summit, attended by roughly 600 participants, featured speakers like Pennsylvania state legislator Chris Rabb, who described the DSA’s success in defeating establishment candidates and reaching voters beyond self-identified socialists. Rabb and other leaders acknowledged concerns about the organization’s lack of racial diversity and pledged outreach to broaden participation.

Foreign-policy discussion centered on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with Siddique stating the DSA has adopted an anti-Zionist stance that calls for equal rights for Palestinians and Israelis. The group also expressed support for legislation to strip tax-exempt status from entities it deems harmful to Palestinian rights.

Looking ahead, DSA members discussed potential support for Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s possible 2028 presidential run, emphasizing alignment with core platform items such as Medicare for All, a $25 minimum wage, free college and an end to arms sales to Israel.

Spokesperson Priscilla Yeverino said media access was limited to a select group of speakers to ensure attendees were briefed on the organization’s history and goals. The convention concluded with calls for further organizing and recruitment efforts.