Democratic socialists win Democratic primaries in several U.S. cities

Candidates backed by the Democratic Socialists of America won Democratic primaries for mayor in multiple cities this month. In Washington, D.C., one candidate defeated other Democratic contenders and will face no significant opposition in November. The candidate also stated an intent to oppose federal administration policies affecting the district.

Victories in other cities A candidate in New York City defeated a former governor in the Democratic primary. In Seattle, a candidate won election last fall. In Los Angeles, another candidate advanced to a November runoff against the current mayor. All four candidates belong to the Democratic Socialists of America.

The organization reports membership growth from several thousand to more than 100,000 over the past decade.

Voter motivations and limits A Democratic strategist said voters in these races appeared more willing to back the most progressive candidate than in congressional contests. The strategist attributed support to dissatisfaction with existing policies and interest in expanded public services.

Moderate candidates won recent mayoral races in Atlanta, Houston, Miami, and San Francisco. In Chicago, the current mayor, who received DSA endorsement in 2023, has drawn criticism from local officials on budget, immigration, and public safety issues.

Several Washington voters interviewed before the primary said they supported the candidate for affordability proposals but expressed uncertainty about the effect of any single mayor on the local economy given the city's federal status.