A Vision of a ‘Society Without Capitalism’

Democratic socialism is experiencing a resurgence in American politics, transitioning from a fringe movement to a potent faction within the Democratic Party. Bhaskar Sunkara, president of *The Nation* and founding editor of *Jacobin*, argues that this shift stems from widespread disillusionment with economic inequality and establishment politics. The movement prioritizes bread-and-butter issues like housing, healthcare, and labor rights, aiming to decommodify essential services through an expanded welfare state. While socialists maintain an anti-capitalist long-term vision, they currently operate within liberal democratic norms, advocating for stronger unions and sectoral bargaining to drive economic productivity. Despite challenges regarding tax policy and cultural litmus tests, the movement seeks to build a durable coalition by addressing the material needs of the working class while navigating the complexities of modern American political identity and foreign policy.