Democrats Should Reclaim the New Deal — Not Embrace Democratic Socialism

For years Democrats have debated the party's direction. One faction urges an embrace of democratic socialism; another clings to a neoliberal framework that many argue hollowed out the middle class, weakened unions and left rural communities feeling abandoned.

Why Labels Matter

Both sides often miss a crucial point: the party performs best when it grounds itself in New Deal–style policies. In the U.S., the phrase "democratic socialism" has become muddled and politically toxic for many voters. In parts of Europe it commonly refers to social-democratic systems in which large sectors of the economy are more socially managed. But in American memory, the word "socialism" often evokes the Red Scare, Cold War fears and authoritarian regimes — reactions that push immigrants, small-business owners and many rural voters away.

Personal Lessons From the Campaign Trail

I learned this firsthand while managing congressional campaigns. One candidate proudly called herself a democratic socialist and joined the Democratic Socialists of America. When I probed, her platform included higher taxes on the wealthy, expanded childcare, paid family leave and stronger labor protections — policies that are better described as social-capitalist reforms designed to strengthen markets, not replace them. When asked if she supported nationalizing industries or controlling the means of production, she said no; she wanted regulation, not the repeal of markets. Labels, in this case, obscured more than they revealed.

Political Costs of Radical Rhetoric

During my work with the Ohio Progressive Caucus, I clashed with members of the Democratic Socialists of America who favored replacing capitalism and social ownership of major industries. Some even backed a candidate who argued companies like Kroger or Procter & Gamble should be nationalized. Such positions have little appeal among suburban moderates, small-business owners, many union households and rural voters — groups the party cannot afford to alienate.

The Democratic coalition that sustained the party for decades is fraying. Unions are shrinking not only because of Republican attacks but because Democrats too often fail to speak the language of working people. Some unions, including the Teamsters, have endorsed Republicans. Farmers who supported Roosevelt and Kennedy now often vote Republican because they believe Democrats no longer understand rural life. Blue-collar voters report feeling condescended to by both corporate-aligned Democrats and far-left activists.

Lessons From the Past

What will win these voters back is the practical, pro-worker agenda that succeeded before. Franklin D. Roosevelt did not promise to overthrow markets; he promised to save them by empowering workers, building infrastructure, stabilizing the financial system and restoring dignity to millions — policies that helped create the American middle class. John F. Kennedy continued that approach with optimistic public investment and appeals to shared purpose.

When I talk to rural voters in Ohio, including many who now vote Republican, I’m often struck by how much admiration they express for New Deal–era programs like the Tennessee Valley Authority, rural electrification, the GI Bill and postwar manufacturing growth. They do not ask for socialism; they ask for fairness, opportunity and an economy that rewards work.

A Practical Path Forward

The future of the Democratic Party does not lie in a return to neoliberal austerity or in rhetoric about nationalizing industries. It lies in a revival of New Dealism: targeted investments in farmers, small businesses, union members and rural infrastructure; policies that make blue-collar workers feel that hard work can lead to opportunity; and messaging that treats voters as partners rather than adversaries.

If Democrats return to that tradition — practical compassion, robust public investment and a clear, accessible message — they can rebuild a durable working-class coalition. If they do not, they risk continuing to lose the people who once delivered their victories.

Brendan Frasier is a congressional campaign manager and political strategist from Cincinnati, Ohio.