Even a Top NY Times Writer Manages to See the DSA Struggling With Communist Viewpoints

What is becoming apparent with much of the media excitement surrounding the rise of the Democratic Socialists is that the giddiness is not built upon anything substantial. Gradually, it is becoming apparent that there is much lacking in the DSA agenda, and even one New York Times reporter is willing to acknowledge this flaw.

On Friday’s edition of Real Time with Bill Maher, the host welcomed Dana Bash and New York Times reporter Jeremy Peters. Maher introduced the subject of DSA members struggling mightily in interviews when pressed ever so slightly to explain their positions and how they may enact the proposed legislation.

Bill noted one interview with Megan Romer, the co-chair of the DSA, who saw her mind lock up when she was asked a simple question about how to fund one of her proposed tax policies. She wanted to “tax the hell” out of the wealthy, and when simply asked to explain specifically what she meant, all four wheels flew off.

This was followed by Peters mentioning how this is a common display from this DSA crowd.

Peters is on the mark here. We have seen these interviews where DSA members feel perfectly confident touting their agendas, but when asked specifics regarding their platforms, they shrivel. We recently watched another DSA figure who was asked about details and said she did not want to engage with hypotheticals – in response to a question on her hypothetical proposals.

It is encouraging to see at least someone at the New York Times willing to point out this major flaw in the DSA campaigns. It is not even a case of punching holes in the proposals, because the questions leading to that run up against the roadblock from candidates who cannot explain their positions.

The struggle is also on display with candidates who want to both bask in the glow of the DSA hype, but then shy away from allegiance when the problematic proposals are brought up.

Look at the effort to say that Abdul El-Sayed is both positioned as one of the DSA figureheads and also declared not to be a member of that faction. In Florida, Angie Nixon has risen to the nomination in the party ranks, just declared herself to be a DSA candidate in June. Then, promptly after the election, she distances herself from many of the positions of her avowed group.

This bifurcated stance on issues is seen throughout the lineup of candidates taking on the mantle of this uprising clan. They enjoy the heat their wild proposal generates, but the moment explanations are requested to explain their agenda, a chill comes over the discourse.

They are very energized about inflicting their platform on the country, but the passion dissipates the moment they have to buttress the plans. Hopefully more at the New York Times, and other outlets, come to this realization.

This is an opinion piece. The views expressed in this article are those of just the author.

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