Is Socialism Moving into the Mainstream?

This week’s discussion brings together editors Peter Suderman, Katherine Mangu-Ward, Nick Gillespie, and Matt Welch to assess the rising clout of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) and whether socialism is becoming a normal fixture within the Democratic Party. The roundtable investigates the factors behind the DSA’s evolving traction, whether Donald Trump has amplified that ascent, and what a more explicitly socialist Democratic Party might signify for U.S. politics.

Afterwards, the editors turn to the DSA’s policy platform, looking at proposals related to housing, labor, and public expenditure. They analyze Donald Trump’s approach to Iran and argue whether the latest surge in hostilities has devolved into a familiar pattern of weekend clashes followed by fragile ceasefires. The discussion also contemplates the United States’ 250th birthday and the relevance of the nation’s founding principles amid intensified political polarization. Finally, a listener question asks how budget-conscious filmmakers can ensure fair compensation for crew amidst the financial constraints of independent production.

 

0:00—Is this the era of socialism?

15:45—DSA policy assessment

28:55—Conflict in Iran and the Hormuz Strait

31:30—A listener asks about films and unions

44:00—The United States’ 250th birthday

50:05—This week’s cultural pick

 

References cited in the episode:

“Are Socialists More Like Libertarians Than We’d Admit” by Elizabeth Nolan Brown

“The DSA and the Democrats’ Retreat Into Economic Fantasyland,” by Peter Suderman

“Mamdani Got His Rent Freeze Wish. Don’t Expect New York City Housing To Become More Affordable,” by Meagan O’Rourke

“Democratic Socialism Remains an Elite Phenomenon,” by Robby Soave

“Darializa Avila Chevalier Will Be This Congress’ First Campus Radical,” by Robby Soave

“Socialists Hijacked My City,” by Liz Wolfe

“Dire Strait,” by Eric Bohem

“Adam Schiff Wants Federal Tax Credits for Movie and TV Production,” by Joe Lancaster

“Film Subsidies Weren’t Enough To Keep Marvel in Georgia,” by Joe Lancaster

“The Former Drug Dealer Whose Shows Make Millions Without Hollywood,” by Ben Fritz

“Don’t Let the Country’s Wet Blankets Ruin Independence Day,” by J.D. Tuccille

“The Gun That Won the Revolution,” by David Kopel

“Native Americans Taught Colonists How To Fight—and To Live Without Kings,” by Charles C. Mann

“Disillusioned Revolutionaries: Many Founders Died in Despair About the American Experiment,” by Matt Welch

“My Very Long Ride on the MAGA Ferris Wheel,” by Billy Binion

---