Record 43% of Americans View Socialism Positively Amid DSA Electoral Gains

A Gallup poll released in September 2026 found that 43% of Americans now hold a positive view of socialism, the highest level since tracking began in 2010 and the first time exceeding 39%. This marks a seven-point increase from the prior year, driven primarily by independents whose favorability rose eight points to 45%, while Democrats remain steady at 65% positive and Republicans at 14%. Socialism now outranks big business (35% positive) but trails capitalism (55%), free enterprise (77%), and small business (95%).

The shift aligns with growing influence of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), which has seen members and endorsed candidates secure primary victories in House races across New York, Philadelphia, Denver, and Detroit, alongside mayoral successes such as Zohran Mamdani in New York. DSA membership has grown to over 100,000, the largest socialist organization in U.S. history. Younger voters (18-34) show particularly strong support, with 57% viewing socialism positively compared to 43% for capitalism in Gallup data.

Other surveys provide nuance: An NBC News poll from September 2026 found 52% overall negative toward socialism, and a New York Times/Siena poll showed 51% unfavorable among likely voters, though Democratic support for the label remains majority. Policy proposals associated with democratic socialism, such as government-funded college tuition and public housing, draw majority support in YouGov polling despite lower favorability for the term itself.

This trend reflects economic pressures and generational change, with independents and youth driving recent gains even as capitalism retains broader appeal overall. Connections to historical critiques of concentrated power echo earlier debates, though modern DSA efforts focus on Democratic primaries rather than third-party runs.