Democratic Socialists of America’s Platform and Election Strategies

The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) released their 2025-2026 platform, which includes several bold structural changes. They advocate for the elimination of the Electoral College, the Senate, the presidency, and the Supreme Court. In their place, they propose an executive and judiciary chosen by and subordinate to Congress, with Congress reconstructed into a single proportionally elected chamber. The platform aims to form a new constitution for a ‘democratic socialist republic.’

These changes are clearly stated on the organization’s website and have been reported by major media outlets like Fox News, the Washington Examiner, and the Washington Monthly. Co-chair Ashik Siddique argued that the Senate is an undemocratic institution, defending the DSA’s stance. However, the more radical aspects of the platform often find less emphasis during election campaigns.

Candidates endorsed by the DSA are expected to support these structural changes. However, some candidates distance themselves from the platform when questioned. These candidates rarely mention a constitutional rewrite during interactions with voters, as it does not align with immediate concerns of constituents such as rent discussions.

A notable example is Will Lawrence, a socialist candidate, and co-founder of the Sunrise Movement, endorsed by Senator Bernie Sanders. Lawrence won a Democratic primary but allowed his DSA membership to lapse shortly after. He did not attribute this to electoral strategy but emphasized representing his constituents. Lawrence retained the support and endorsements without disclaiming the platform’s goals.

This trend is noticeable among other politicians like Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ro Khanna, who have also distanced themselves from the DSA publicly. These actions enable candidates to avoid directly addressing controversial platform elements while maintaining faction support.

It is important for voters to question candidates endorsed by the DSA about their commitment to these goals. Understanding where candidates stand on significant constitutional changes is crucial for informed voting decisions.

Leif Larson, a political consultant, believes in pressing candidates on these issues to uncover their true positions. Such inquiries prompt accountability and transparency in political campaigns and voter expectations.