Swing Voters Sour on DSA and Far-Left Control as Midterms Near, AFP Poll Shows

A new canvass by Americans for Prosperity across eight battleground states finds swing voters increasingly unfavorable toward the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), with 56% now viewing the group negatively—up from 50% in September. Nearly 60% say the far left controls the Democratic Party, also up from 50%. Meanwhile, 82% prefer personal freedom and free markets over greater government control.

The AFP “Americans Unscripted” report, based on conversations with over 81,000 voters (including 9,000–10,200 on DSA questions) in Alaska, Iowa, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, and Wisconsin from October 1–16, was first detailed by the New York Post. AFP spokeswoman Katelyn Bledsoe noted swing voters are “souring on socialism—and fast,” creating potential openings for Republicans who offer credible cost-reduction plans.

Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) has repeatedly warned his party about its socialism problem and associations with DSA figures, echoing concerns that the “big tent” is shifting leftward. A Michigan Democratic House candidate recently dropped his DSA membership amid a tough race.

Yet the same data flags risks for the GOP: swing voters now trust Democrats more on cost of living (45%–36%), reversing an August Republican edge, as inflation and fuel costs dominate concerns. Top forecasters view Republicans as underdogs heading into the November 3 midterms.

This tracks with broader patterns of voter pushback against perceived radicalism in Democratic ranks, even as economic anxieties persist.