A leading centrist Democratic group has announced a $15 million initiative to counter the influence of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) ahead of the 2028 election cycle.
The effort, launched by Third Way, follows the victory of Abdul El-Sayed over Rep. Haley Stevens in Michigan’s Senate primary, a race viewed as a test of progressive strength in a battleground state. Third Way describes the DSA as posing a ‘mortal danger’ to the Democratic Party, framing the group’s ideas as incompatible with broader electoral success.
Third Way’s campaign strategy
Third Way’s initiative will focus on opposition research, polling, social media programs, and outreach to Democratic activists and leaders, according to statements from the group. The effort is explicitly designed to prevent the DSA from defining the party’s national brand, with Third Way co-founder Matt Bennett stating that the group’s politics are ‘toxic’ and pose a threat to defeating Republicans.
DSA responds to the campaign
The DSA has dismissed the effort as an attempt to suppress working-class political power. Megan Romer, co-chair of the DSA, stated that the $15 million expenditure reflects a belief that ‘a better world isn’t possible’, adding that the movement will continue building support despite the opposition.
Context: Progressive gains and party tensions
The Third Way campaign comes amid a series of progressive victories in Democratic primaries. In addition to El-Sayed’s win, DSA-backed candidates have secured key races, including:
- Janeese Lewis George’s election as mayor of Washington, D.C.
- Nithya Raman’s advancement in Los Angeles’s mayoral race
- Melat Kiros’s upset victory over Rep. Diana DeGette in Colorado
These developments have intensified debates within the Democratic Party about its ideological direction. Some moderates, including Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA), have warned against the rising influence of socialist policies, while progressive leaders argue that the party’s base is increasingly aligned with left-wing priorities.
Third Way’s stated rationale
Third Way’s leadership has framed the campaign as a necessary defense against radicalism. Kate deGruyter, a senior vice president at Third Way, stated that the party ‘cannot be associated with far-left radical ideas and stances’, emphasizing that the DSA’s influence must be curbed to avoid alienating moderate voters.
Timeline and scope
The $15 million effort is scheduled to run between now and 2028, with a focus on shaping the party’s messaging and candidate selection ahead of the next presidential election. Third Way has clarified that the campaign is not directed at individual candidates but rather at the broader movement’s influence within the party.
Broader implications for the Democratic Party
The escalating conflict reflects deeper divisions over the party’s future. Moderates argue that nominating progressive candidates in key races risks handing victories to Republicans, while progressives contend that the party must embrace bold policy shifts to energize its base. The outcome of this campaign could influence the Democratic Party’s strategy in the 2024 and 2028 elections.