A trio of democratic socialist victories in New York City this week is deepening a schism among Democrats over who should lead the party and determine its direction as the midterms approach — and as the 2028 presidential race looms not far beyond.Limited time: Save 25% on NBC News subscriptionGet exclusive reporting, live Q&As and ad-free reading.The party’s left flank took a victory lap after insurgent candidates backed by New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani all won Tuesday night, knocking off a pair of House incumbents as well as the handpicked successor of a retiring congresswoman.The results pushed long-held tensions into public view once again.
Some in the establishment called for candidates to stop identifying as Democrats and instead start their own party if they detest its leaders so much.Others even accused Mamdani of trying to “blow up” the party.Democratic congressional candidate Brad Lander, second right, arrives with Mamdani for an election night watch party on Tuesday.Ryan Murphy / AP“The constant bashing does hurt the Democratic Party’s brand.
There’s a difference between constructive criticism and destructive criticism,” former Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison told NBC News, noting his objections had nothing to do with ideology.“Everyone wants to be the person throwing rocks at the house until they realize they’re the one expected to move in.”“I’ve even had conversations with people who are widely viewed as potential presidential candidates and told them it’s ultimately counterproductive,” he continued.
“If you win the nomination, you inherit that party.Why spend years weakening the very vehicle you’ll eventually need to carry your message to the American people?”Those on both sides of the divide acknowledged that New York City is far more liberal than the swing states and districts that will determine whether the party wins majorities this fall.
But progressive Democrats argue it’s undeniable...