Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Roy Cooper, former governor of North Carolina, has stated he will not sign a pledge rejecting socialist stances, framing his decision as part of a broader strategy to expand the Democratic Party’s ideological reach.
In recently obtained video footage, Cooper was asked whether he would endorse the Promise to America, a document circulated by moderate Democrats that repudiates socialist policies. He responded, ‘I don’t see any need to.’ Cooper added that the party should embrace a ‘wide spectrum’ of political views, particularly as the Republican Party faces internal divisions and loyalty tests.
Cooper is running to succeed retiring Republican Sen. Thom Tillis in a state that has historically favored GOP candidates. His campaign emphasizes his record of bipartisan governance during his tenure as governor from 2017 to 2025, including collaboration with a Republican-controlled state legislature.
Cooper’s Stance on Socialism and Party Strategy
Cooper’s comments come amid growing discussions about the influence of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) within the Democratic Party. The DSA advocates for policies such as abolishing the U.S. Senate, establishing public ownership of corporations, and dismantling Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The group describes its vision as one where essential services like housing, healthcare, education, and energy are treated as ‘common goods and utilities’ rather than for-profit enterprises.
Cooper has not aligned himself with the DSA and has positioned himself as a candidate capable of appealing to a broad electorate. His campaign highlights his ability to work across party lines, a strategy he argues is necessary in a politically divided state.
Context: The Promise to America and DSA Influence
The Promise to America is a document circulated by moderate Democrats seeking to distance the party from socialist policies. Signatories pledge to oppose measures such as Medicare for All, free college tuition, and wealth taxes, which are often associated with socialist platforms. Cooper’s refusal to sign the pledge raises questions about the Democratic Party’s internal cohesion, particularly in competitive races where moderate and progressive factions may clash.
The DSA’s policy proposals, as outlined on its website, include:
- Abolishing the U.S. Senate and replacing it with a unicameral legislature.
- Public ownership of major corporations, including utilities and financial institutions.
- Abolishing ICE and restructuring immigration enforcement.
- Guaranteed housing, healthcare, and education as universal rights.
Campaign Dynamics and Electoral Implications
Cooper’s Senate bid is unfolding in a state where Republicans have held a consistent advantage in federal elections. His strategy of appealing to a ‘wide spectrum’ of Democratic voters—including those aligned with progressive or socialist movements—reflects a broader national debate about the party’s direction.
Critics of Cooper’s approach argue that embracing socialist-aligned policies could alienate moderate voters, while supporters contend that a big-tent strategy is necessary to counter the Republican Party’s narrowing ideological base. The outcome of this race may influence how Democrats nationwide navigate the balance between progressive and centrist factions ahead of future elections.