Democrats alarmed after socialist candidates score primary wins in New York

Three socialist candidates won Democratic congressional primaries in New York, triggering shock and concern among senior Democrats and intensifying the party’s internal struggle. The winners were backed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, and their victories were described by opponents as a sign that the party’s left wing is gaining organizational strength.

Political activist Van Jones told CNN, “The ceiling is collapsing tonight on the Democratic Party establishment.” He said the development was no longer just a movement but “a movement and a political machine at the same time,” adding that if Mamdani completes this “three-win” effort, it would mark “a new era in Democratic politics.”

Sen. John Fetterman sharply criticized the results, calling them “the days of dancing for the far left.” He said some of the candidates want to abolish immigration enforcement, police, and the border. He also said the winners represent the party’s “full pro-Hamas wing,” which he claimed has “declared war on regular Democrats.”

Moderate Democrats also voiced alarm. Rep. Tom Suozzi said the Democratic Socialists movement is “organizing on the ground while others are only complaining,” while another Democratic lawmaker called the outcome a “earthquake” and a “major defeat for the Democratic establishment.” The broader fear inside the party is that this winning streak will deepen the fight over the Democrats’ identity and future.