Van Hollen Says DSA Has a Place in Democratic Party, Adding to Debate
Senator Chris Van Hollen said Sunday that members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) have a place in the Democratic Party, inserting himself into a growing debate over the party's direction following a string of victories by progressive and DSA-aligned candidates in Democratic primaries ahead of November's midterms.
The Maryland Democrat made the remarks during an appearance on NBC News' Meet the Press, where host Kristen Welker asked about criticism of the DSA and whether democratic socialists belong in the party. Van Hollen replied, "Yes, they do, as part of the debate." He also said he would not reject an endorsement from certain individuals affiliated with the DSA, though he added that he is "certainly not seeking the endorsement from the DSA."
Van Hollen's comments come at a pivotal moment for Democrats as recent primary contests have exposed growing tensions between the party's establishment and an ascendant left wing energized by candidates backed by the DSA and progressive organizations. The debate has intensified following high-profile victories by left-leaning candidates, including Michigan Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed and several DSA-affiliated House candidates.
At the same time, moderates have warned that some positions associated with democratic socialism could hurt Democrats in competitive general election races. Van Hollen emphasized that Democrats need to be clear about what they stand for, saying the party should focus on what it's for, not just what it's against.
Contrast With Hakeem Jeffries
Van Hollen's remarks came a week after House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, distanced himself from the democratic socialist movement. Jeffries said on Meet the Press that the caucus is a broad one encompassing progressives, moderates, and Blue Dog Democrats, but stated that he doesn't "support the DSA agenda as has been articulated by the DSA itself." Jeffries also rejected Medicare for All, a cornerstone of the progressive wing, and distanced himself from calls to abolish U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
This divergence highlights an increasingly visible divide within the party as it heads into the midterms. While Van Hollen sees a role for the DSA in internal debate, Jeffries has drawn a clear line, suggesting that the party's leadership is not prepared to embrace the movement's core policy proposals.
Polling and Public Opinion
Public opinion data shows challenges for the democratic socialist label. A Marquette Law School poll found the DSA has a net favorability rating of -30, with 24% favorable and 54% unfavorable. An Ipsos/Washington Post survey found that a majority of Americans would not consider voting for a democratic socialist candidate.
These numbers underscore the political risk for Democrats who align too closely with the movement, even as its candidates have shown strength in primaries. The tension between grassroots energy and general election viability remains a central question for the party.
Van Hollen also acknowledged "kicking the tires" on a possible 2028 presidential run, noting visits to early-voting states New Hampshire and Iowa. His comments on the DSA may be seen as an effort to position himself within the party's broad spectrum as he weighs a potential national bid.
Newsweek reached out to the DSA and Van Hollen for comment on Sunday but did not receive responses by the time of publication.