Rahm Emanuel Says Democratic Socialists Are “Their Own Party” Amid Growing DSA Influence

Former Chicago mayor and ex-White House chief of staff Rah Rah Emanuel told NBC News’ *Meet the Press* that democratic socialists “are their own party,” noting a recent DSA convention in Chicago. He argued that the Democratic Party’s path to winning the 2026 midterms and the 2028 presidential race depends on a broad coalition that includes independents and disaffected Republicans, not on moving further left. Emanuel warned that the party faces a “brand problem” and must focus on delivering results rather than merely opposing former President Donald Trump.

Newsweek

The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), described as the nation’s largest socialist organization, has secured a series of primary victories this election cycle. Notable wins include Abdul El-Sayed’s upset in Michigan’s Democratic Senate primary, Claire Valdez’s capture of a New York seat formerly held by Nydia Velázquez, Darializa Avila Chevalier’s defeat of incumbent Adriano Espaillat, Chris Rabb’s primary win in a Philadelphia-based district, and Melat Kiros’s victory over Diana DeGette in Denver. These successes have revived debate over the party’s policy direction, especially on Medicare for All, tuition-free public college, tenant protections, and expanded worker rights.

Newsweek

Emanuel emphasized that while “massive disagreements” exist—particularly on Israel-Gaza policy—he would still back the Democratic nominee. He contrasted the DSA’s stance with the Democratic Party’s positions, stating the party does not support defunding the police, releasing prisoners, or open borders. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, speaking earlier in the summer, reiterated his opposition to Medicare for All and distanced himself from the DSA agenda, urging the party to focus on lowering costs for groceries, gas, housing, and healthcare.

Newsweek

Some party members argue that DSA-aligned policies are out of step with moderate and swing voters. Jeffries’ refusal to cosponsor single-payer health legislation reflects a centrist push against the progressive wing. Critics contend that embracing such policies could jeopardize the coalition needed to win competitive states such as Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

Newsweek

• “I didn’t say form their own party. They are their own party. They had a convention here in Chicago just six weeks ago,” — Rah Emanuel, former Chicago mayor and former U.S. ambassador to Japan

Newsweek

• “Do we have a brand problem? Yes, we have a brand problem,” — Rah Emanuel

Newsweek

• “We'll have a healthy debate between the pragmatic wing and the progressive wing of the party,” — Rah Emanuel

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• “We don't believe in defunding the police. We believe in better policing,” — Rah Emanuel

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