Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., drew a sharp distinction between mainstream Democrats and the Democratic Socialists of America during a recent interview with Tomi Lahren, arguing that the socialist organization does not represent the Democratic Party’s values and should not be allowed to reshape its direction.
The discussion centered on the growing influence of Democratic Socialists in Democratic politics following a series of primary victories by progressive candidates and ongoing debates over the party’s future.
Lahren began by asking Gottheimer whether he believes there is significant ideological overlap between traditional Democrats and Democratic Socialists.
“I want to ask you: Do you think that there’s a lot of overlap between traditional Democrats such as yourself and the Democrat socialists that are giving the establishment a run for its money?” Lahren asked.
Gottheimer rejected the idea, saying he does not consider members of the Democratic Socialists of America to be Democrats despite their efforts to run candidates under the Democratic Party banner.
“Well, obviously, I’m a very proud, common sense Democrat, and I don’t think DSA members are Democrats,” Gottheimer responded. “They’re socialists, right?”
He said he has no objection to Democratic Socialists organizing as a separate political movement but opposed their efforts to influence the Democratic Party from within.
“And I’m all for them having their own party if they want one, but if they’re trying to take over our party, that’s unacceptable to me.”
Gottheimer argued that the group’s political philosophy differs significantly from that of mainstream Democrats.
“And their values, their ideas, and you know are certainly not in line with ours.”
According to Gottheimer, members of the Democratic Socialists of America are attempting to use the Democratic Party as a vehicle for advancing their own agenda rather than supporting the party’s leadership or platform.
“And they don’t support our leadership. They’re trying to use the Democratic Party as a vessel for their ideas.”
He also referenced statements and discussions that have taken place at Democratic Socialist gatherings, arguing they demonstrate ideological differences between the organization and the broader Democratic Party.
“And as you heard in some of these conventions, literally, they’re supporting the Communist Manifesto and Trotsky-they’re anti-American, they’re anti-cop, they don’t believe in borders, you know.”
Gottheimer maintained that, despite the attention the organization has received in recent election cycles, it represents only a small fraction of Democratic voters nationwide.
“And frankly, the good news is there’s only about 150,000 of them registered, and there’s 45 million Democrats.”
He said that disparity should make it clear that Democratic Socialists do not speak for the party as a whole.
“And so we should make it very clear that they’re not Democrats and they’re not welcome in the Democratic Party.”
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The exchange comes as ideological divisions within the Democratic Party have become increasingly visible ahead of upcoming elections, with moderate Democrats and progressive activists continuing to debate the party’s direction on issues ranging from economic policy and policing to immigration and foreign affairs.
Gottheimer’s comments reflect the broader debate over whether Democratic Socialists should be viewed as a distinct political movement or as part of the Democratic coalition.
During the interview, he made clear that he believes the organization represents a separate ideology and should not define the future of the Democratic Party.
