A Majority of American Voters Concerned About Socialist Candidates, Poll Finds
Authored by Sarah Roderick-Fitch via The Center Square
A recent poll conducted by The Center Square Voters’ Voice revealed that 55% of American voters are worried about socialist candidates running for and potentially winning political office in the United States. This concern is particularly high among Democratic Socialist candidates, with 35% of those surveyed expressing very high levels of concern and another 20% stating they are somewhat concerned.
The poll results come amidst a surge in popularity of Democratic Socialist candidates across the nation, with the Democratic Socialists of America boasting 67 wins and 93 candidates running. However, the group also includes 62 DSA candidates who have faced defeat in recent elections.
Another poll conducted by The Center Square’s Voters’ Voice in August found that 63% of Americans are concerned about the increasing presence of socialism and communism in American politics, with 36% expressing very high levels of concern.
The latest poll surveyed 2,527 registered voters from October 5-7 and included 1,136 Republicans, 1,171 Democrats, and 220 True Independents. As the midterm elections draw near, both Republican and Democratic voices are cautioning against the rise of democratic socialists in positions of power, citing prominent figures like U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as key supporters of socialist policies.
“The Democratic Party is becoming the party of socialism. 58% view socialism positively. 50% view capitalism negatively. I’m a proud free market capitalist. This is lunacy,” remarked U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, highlighting the divide within the Democratic party regarding socialist ideologies.
Despite the growing acceptance of socialism among some Democratic voters, there remains a significant portion (49%) who are concerned about the trend, particularly as democratic socialist candidates continue to gain traction in various states ahead of the upcoming elections.