Trump Uses Communist Rhetoric in Midterm Campaign Speeches

He said a communist "menace" needed to be removed "like a cancer" and later called some Democrats "hardcore, godless communists" at a religious conference. The statements come as Republicans seek a message for the midterm elections that will help them retain their congressional majority.

France 24 reported that the rhetoric has increased after several democratic socialist candidates won primaries in New York and Colorado.

" The Washington Post reported that mentions of "communist" and "communism" in online posts by Trump allies rose 43 percent from a year earlier. The language has appeared alongside concerns over inflation and the effects of the conflict with Iran.

Democrats have said the attacks divert attention from economic issues. Progressive commentator Thom Hartmann told AFP that the focus on communism avoids discussion of housing costs for younger voters. Some communications consultants quoted by AFP said the term "communism" has less resonance with voters under 50.

Others noted that the Democratic Party operates within elections and a market economy.