WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former President Barack Obama has urged Democrats to welcome socialist voices into their ranks, saying the party’s future depends on inclusion rather than ideological purity.
Speaking Thursday on the Pod Save America podcast, Obama said Democrats should resist the urge to impose “litmus tests” and instead focus on building a broader coalition that reflects the changing values of younger voters.
“Tuesday was nice, but we’ve got a lot of work to do,” Obama said. “Your task is going to be not to impose litmus tests. We had Abigail Spanberger win, and we had Zohran Mamdani win — and they are all part of a vision for the future.”
Obama’s comments come as the Democratic Party continues to grapple with growing divisions between its centrist and progressive wings — a split that could shape the outcome of the 2028 presidential race.
Obama’s Vision for a Broader Democratic Tent
During the podcast, Obama praised the diversity of views emerging within the party, noting that both moderate and socialist candidates represent “different parts of the same vision.”
He called on party leaders to “make sure every person in this country is treated with dignity and respect,” emphasizing unity over division.
“We want everybody engaged,” Obama said. “We have differences, and yes, there are fights that have to be fought, but deep down there’s something core in us that we have in common that’s extraordinary.”
The former president specifically mentioned New York City’s newly elected mayor, Zohran Mamdani — a self-described Democratic Socialist — calling him part of “a vision for the future.”
Who Is Zohran Mamdani?
Mamdani’s upset victory over former Governor Andrew Cuomo shocked political observers last week. Running on a platform of higher taxes for corporations and wealthy residents, Mamdani also campaigned for a citywide rent freeze, free childcare, and city-owned grocery stores.
His platform, while popular among younger progressives, has drawn criticism from moderates who warn that his economic proposals could drive businesses out of the city.
Still, for Obama, Mamdani represents a new generation of Democrats — one unafraid to challenge the party’s traditional economic stances.
“The task now,” Obama said, “is to make sure that everyone feels they have a seat at the table — that’s how you win elections.”
Polls Show Democrats Warming to Socialism
A recent Gallup poll underscores the growing ideological shift Obama referenced. According to the survey, only 42% of Democrats now hold a positive view of capitalism, while 66% view socialism favorably — a stark contrast to polling from a decade ago.
Political analysts warn the trend could complicate the party’s future.
NewsNation contributor Chris Cillizza said this week that while the shift might energize younger voters, it could alienate key swing states.
“If I were a Democrat who wants to win in 2028, this would worry me,” Cillizza said. “Socialism, even dressed up as ‘democratic socialism,’ won’t sell across the country.”
Party Leaders Divided on Strategy
Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Ken Martin, however, echoed Obama’s call for inclusion, telling Fox News that expanding the coalition is vital to winning future elections.
“We have lots of people in that tent — from conservative Democrats to centrists to progressives to these new leftists,” Martin said. “You don’t win by pushing people out of your coalition. You win by bringing people in.”
That sentiment highlights a growing divide between those who want to keep the party anchored to traditional liberal values and those embracing more radical economic ideas.
Several senior Democrats privately expressed concern that embracing socialism could backfire in purple states such as Michigan, Arizona, and Georgia — all of which could decide the next presidential race.
Mamdani Faces Scrutiny After Puerto Rico Trip
Meanwhile, Mamdani’s early actions as mayor-elect have already raised eyebrows.
Just days after his victory, the self-proclaimed socialist flew to Puerto Rico for the annual Somos conference — a high-profile gathering of New York politicians known as part policy forum, part luxury retreat.
While the event is officially billed as a chance to discuss issues affecting Puerto Rican communities, critics say it has become a symbol of political hypocrisy.
“He’s talking about raising taxes on the rich while staying in luxury suites,” one New York lawmaker quipped.
Mamdani arrived Thursday afternoon on a commercial flight and told reporters he was “happy to be in Puerto Rico.”
“I was asked where I’d go outside the country, and I said I’m happy to be here,” he said, reiterating his plans to raise taxes on “wealthy” New Yorkers to fund social programs.
His attendance at the event, often dubbed the unofficial kickoff to New York’s next election cycle, suggests Mamdani is already positioning himself as a key player in the state’s progressive movement.
Obama’s Calculated Message
For Obama, the call to embrace figures like Mamdani may be less about ideology and more about strategy. The former president remains one of the most influential voices in Democratic politics, and his message appears aimed at preventing internal fractures that could hand future elections to Republicans.
By stressing unity, Obama is attempting to hold together a coalition that increasingly spans the political spectrum — from old-school moderates like Spanberger to outspoken socialists like Mamdani and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
“You win through addition, not subtraction,” Obama emphasized, echoing DNC Chair Martin’s comments.
Still, the question remains whether the broader American electorate is ready to embrace socialism — even under a “Democratic” banner.
A Party at a Crossroads
As Democrats look ahead to 2028, the internal tug-of-war between centrists and socialists is likely to intensify. While Obama’s words carry weight, they also expose just how divided the party remains over its identity and direction.
If the polls hold, socialism’s growing popularity among young voters could force Democrats to redefine their message — or risk losing control of their own base.
For now, Obama’s message is clear: unity first, debate later.
“We’re not going to agree on everything,” he said. “But we’ve got to remember what binds us together — because the other side isn’t waiting for us to figure it out.”
Sarah Mitchell is a bestselling novelist recognized for her insightful and emotionally resonant stories that explore the complexities of human relationships. Originally from Denver, Colorado, Sarah grew up in a family of teachers who nurtured her curiosity and love for storytelling. She studied psychology at Stanford University, where she became fascinated by the intricacies of human behavior—an interest that would later shape her writing career. Sarah’s novels are praised for their nuanced characters, intricate plots, and ability to capture the subtle tensions that define love, friendship, and family ties. Her breakthrough novel, The Spaces Between Us, became an instant bestseller, lauded for its honest portrayal of strained family relationships and the fragile bonds that hold people together. Since then, she has published several works that continue to captivate audiences around the world. Outside of her writing career, Sarah is passionate about mental health advocacy and often partners with organizations to promote awareness and support for those struggling with emotional well-being. Her personal life is quieter—she enjoys hiking in the Colorado mountains, practicing yoga, and spending time with close friends. With each new book, Sarah Mitchell cements her reputation as a writer who illuminates the beauty and struggles of human connection.
