Why the Left Needs Liberals

Abstract

The revival of democratic socialism in the United States is a marvelous thing: it has helped spur mass opposition to corporate power, persuaded a majority of Americans to endorse Medicare for All, and inspired its adherents to run competitive races for every office from city council to the presidency. But the surge has also emboldened some on the left to echo an old charge that will do its future prospects no good: "elite" liberals are a major obstacle to achieving the changes we need.