Socialism, once considered a fringe ideology in American politics, is increasingly shaping mainstream debates and campaigns in several major US cities.
From New York to Seattle, candidates openly identifying as democratic socialists are emerging as serious contenders in elections.
In New York City, Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and current frontrunner in the city's mayoral race, has become a lightning rod for both enthusiasm and criticism.
Mamdani is a vocal advocate for the "Free Palestine" movement
Mamdani drew attention recently for his delayed response to President Donald Trump's Gaza ceasefire deal, and when he did issue a statement, he avoided crediting the president, instead emphasizing solidarity with Palestinian activists.
Author's summary: Socialism becomes a mainstream ideology in US cities.