How Socialist Is the D.S.A.? Megan Romer Explains
Summary
David Remnick interviews Megan Romer, co-chair of the Democratic Socialists of America, to explore the group’s evolving influence and ideology. Romer clarifies DSA’s stance on workplace democracy, wealth inequality, and radical policies like prison abolition and open borders. The conversation also addresses contentious issues, including the organization’s refusal to endorse major party presidential candidates and its positions on Israel, Hamas, and the war in Ukraine.
Topics discussed
Introduction: The rise of democratic socialism and DSA
Defining democratic socialism and workplace democracy
DSA structure, membership growth, and defining the working class
Electoral strategy: Non-endorsements and third-party ambitions
Policy positions: Open borders, billionaires, and taxation
Break and transition to Israel-Palestine stance
DSA's stance on Israel, Palestine, and October 7th
Megan Romer's personal journey to socialism
Prison abolition and defunding the police
Abolishing the Senate and internal DSA dynamics
Marxist theory, global socialist models, and Cuba
DSA's position on the war in Ukraine and NATO
Future presidential candidates and democratic decision-making
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