Progressives are winning in American cities. Can they win rural voters too? | Bhaskar Sunkara
Summary
Progressive candidates backed by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) have recently won several elections in New York City, showing growing influence in urban areas. However, progressives still struggle to win support in rural parts of the United States, where voters often have more conservative views but show openness to some economic policies like raising the minimum wage.Key Facts
- The DSA has grown from a small group in 2007 to having at least 15 elected candidates in New York state by 2024.
- Socialist candidates recently won important seats in New York City, including Darializa Avila Chevalier and Claire Valdez.
- Left-wing candidates tend to win over 50% in urban areas but have about a 30% support ceiling in swing or rural districts.
- Only one member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus in 2024 represents a mostly rural district.
- Rural voters are generally whiter, older, more likely to own guns, and have conservative views on immigration.
- Despite this, many rural voters support economic policies such as a $15 minimum wage, Medicare for All, and background checks on gun sales.
- About 29% of rural voters who supported President Trump also support certain progressive economic policies and oppose abortion bans.
- Progressive populist candidates like Dan Osborn are making unexpected gains in conservative rural areas by focusing on economic issues important to working-class voters.
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