Story perspectives

DSA Fields Largest Slate After Membership Surge, Wins Colorado

8/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) members are fielding their largest congressional slate after primary victories.
DSA membership fell to 50,700 in late 2024, then rose above 120,000 by July 2026, exceeding the Socialist Party’s 1912 peak of 113,000-118,000.
Eighty percent of DSA members hold a bachelor’s degree, with 35% having graduate degrees and 45% earning under $60,000.
In June, DSA member Melat Kiros defeated Rep. Diana DeGette in Colorado.

History

Historical Context

In 1912 Eugene V. Debs led the Socialist Party of America to a record 6 % popular-vote share, raising paid membership to 113,371. The party’s surge, highlighted by leaders such as Victor L. Berger, forged a grassroots tradition. Today the Democratic Socialists of America invoke that legacy as they field an unprecedented congressional slate and win seats such as Melat Kiros in Colorado.

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Story summary

Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) members are fielding their largest congressional slate after primary victories.
DSA membership fell to 50,700 in late 2024, then rose above 120,000 by July 2026, exceeding the Socialist Party’s 1912 peak of 113,000-118,000.
Eighty percent of DSA members hold a bachelor’s degree, with 35% having graduate degrees and 45% earning under $60,000.
In June, DSA member Melat Kiros defeated Rep. Diana DeGette in Colorado.

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