Examining Extremism and Democratic Values

American democracy thrives on diverse voices and viewpoints. However, throughout history, some candidates have contradicted constitutional ideals and democratic values. Prominent examples include David Duke, who promoted white supremacy and antisemitic conspiracies, and George Lincoln Rockwell, an openly Nazi presidential aspirant.

Other figures like Lyndon LaRouche, known for antisemitic conspiracies, and Earl Browder, who advocated for Soviet-aligned policies, also illustrate this. Recently, candidates from the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) winning primaries in New York and Colorado align with this trend.

The DSA platform opposes capitalism, advocating for social ownership and a reduced American military presence.

The platform includes closing overseas bases and redefining police resources. The DSA aims to dissolve the U.S. empire, citing America’s imperialism and militarism. These are not fringe ideas attributed by critics but are rather stated positions by the DSA leadership.

The DSA uses the Democratic Party’s platform strategically, aiming to eventually establish an independent working-class party. This strategy, known internally as the “dirty break,” mirrors previous approaches seen in political history.

Donald Trump capitalized on racial fears and misinformation to gain political power. The DSA attempts a similar strategy, leveraging antisemitic sentiments among progressives. This tactic has gained some political traction.

Darializa Avila Chevalier, a nominee for New York’s 13th Congressional District, has made statements endorsing controversial figures and expressing anti-American sentiments, such as advocating for abolishing police and borders.

In Colorado, Melat Kiros emerged victorious in the Democratic primary, despite controversial statements about political violence and antisemitism.

I have a history of public service with the Democratic Party, having worked under President Clinton and Madeleine Albright, and serving in a congressional bid in Missouri. I am a strong critic of Donald Trump and his disregard for democratic norms.

Democrats must maintain the standards we demand of Republicans. We criticized Republicans’ silence on extremism and the erosion of democratic values during Trump’s presidency. Democrats should now address the extremist elements within our ranks.

The DSA’s impact remains limited due to their lack of substantial power. However, their objectives indicate a troubling direction for the Democratic Party. Democrats must reject bigotry and extremism as firmly on the left as on the right.

Welcoming DSA candidates for short-term political gains risks long-term stability. It could lead to party agendas being compromised by extreme elements. Democrats must clearly reject policies that do not align with democratic principles.

The writer, Jamie Metzl, is a futurist, author, and founder of OneShared.World, with experience in the US National Security Council and Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The opinions expressed are his own.