Former Sen. Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.) and Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) have publicly criticized the Democratic Party's recent embrace of progressive and socialist candidates following primary victories across the country. Both lawmakers expressed concerns about the party's ideological direction, citing recent polling and election results.
Part 1: Immediate Action & Core Facts
Manchin's Criticism: Manchin, who left the Democratic Party in 2024, called it "absolutely insane" that a Gallup poll found 66% of Democrats view socialism more positively than capitalism. He attributed this shift to progressive primary wins, including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's victory in September 2025. Mamdani-endorsed candidates, backed by the Democratic Socialists of America, won multiple Democratic primaries.
Fetterman's Warning: Fetterman said a "significant part" of the Democratic Party is being "taken over" by "extreme views," pointing to progressive candidates like Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner and New York's democratic socialist victors. He also raised concerns about Platner's past scandals, including sending sexually explicit texts to multiple women.
Part 2: Deeper Dive & Context
Progressive Wins: Recent Democratic primary victories include Nithya Raman in Los Angeles and Janeese Lewis George in Washington, D.C. Mamdani, dubbed a "kingmaker," has endorsed multiple winning candidates. Platner, a "New Deal Democrat," supports policies like Medicare for All and is the presumed Democratic nominee in Maine.
Manchin's Party Switch: Manchin left the Democratic Party in May 2024, citing "partisan extremism" in both major parties. He emphasized his commitment to "common ground" and "putting country before party."
Fetterman's Concerns: Fetterman has repeatedly criticized Platner's past behavior, questioning his use of the messaging app Kik and its association with underage users. He also accused Platner of lying about his actions.
Polling Data: The Gallup poll, released ahead of Mamdani's victory, showed a majority of Democrats viewing socialism more favorably than capitalism. This trend has coincided with progressive candidates' success in primaries nationwide.