Democratic strategist James Carville has called on socialists within the Democratic Party to consider breaking away and forming their own political movement. He argues that the policies favored by socialists are not aligned with those of mainstream voters.
Carville made these comments during a recent episode of his podcast, where he discussed the rise of socialism in New York. Three socialist-linked candidates recently won decisive Democratic primary victories in the state, sparking concerns among some liberals about the direction of the party.
Carville expressed concern about the stances taken by some socialist candidates, including Darializa Avila Chevalier, who has been criticized for embracing anti-Semitic positions and holding views that are out of line with the establishment. He suggested that it may be time for Democrats to acknowledge a schism within the party and for socialists to consider forming their own movement.
While Carville praised progressive leaders like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, he drew a distinction between her and more radical anti-capitalist members of the socialist movement. He specifically criticized Avila Chevalier for her refusal to take a stance on certain issues, including whether murderers should go to jail and whether Israel should exist as a country.
The recent election in New York highlighted nuances within the Democratic Party's progressive movement. Ocasio-Cortez did not endorse Avila Chevalier or two other socialist candidates, despite being a prominent progressive voice. However, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who was helped by Ocasio-Cortez, did endorse all three candidates.
Carville argued that Avila Chevalier and those with similar views should consider forming their own movement, rather than continuing to identify as Democrats. He cited her attacks on interracial relationships and the American flag as examples of views that are incompatible with those of mainstream Democrats.
Carville emphasized that he is comfortable with a political party that questions the policies of the Israeli government, but he draws a line at denying the right of Israel to exist. He suggested that Democrats should be willing to acknowledge a schism within the party and allow socialists to pursue their own path.
Carville has previously stated that the House Democratic Caucus should refuse to seat Avila Chevalier if she wins the election in November, arguing that her views are fundamentally at odds with those of the Democratic Party. He warned that socialists who hold extreme views are ultimately damaging to the party and should consider starting their own movement.
