Democratic Socialists

If capitalism is so effective, why do corporations rely on tax breaks, subsidies, exemptions, grants, bailouts, and trade barriers to survive? When citizens seek assistance, it is labeled socialism. It is acceptable to fund large corporations with millions of dollars, yet providing a family with $164 a month for food is considered a handout. Allocating 54% of our tax dollars to the military to kill people is permissible, but offering free healthcare is viewed negatively. For those still convinced that our capitalist system is the best, here are some additional points to consider.

In the 1950s and 1960s, we were considered the greatest country in the world. Today, opinions may differ, but it’s important to recognize that we now rank around 30th in education and healthcare. Our standing in women’s healthcare and quality of life is very low, worsened by the reversal of Roe v. Wade and ongoing abuse and domestic violence, both of which are exacerbated by economic worry. Pay equity is near the bottom and is declining as the oligarchy consolidates power. Additionally, our credibility with allies and on the international stage has diminished significantly.

Daycare and basic human needs are unaffordable for most, so you may want to venture outside your bubble and work with the elderly, poor, or homeless, even for a day, to get a reality check. Other countries don’t have people lose their healthcare when they lose their jobs, nor do they go bankrupt and have to run GoFundMe campaigns for cancer or other costly diseases.

I’m not sure what class or standard of living you have, but I grew up lower-middle-class. It used to be that a family could make it on a middle-class income, but that’s no longer the case.

Our neighbor to the north, Canada, serves its people very well. Lower-income households there receive $10 per day for daycare, while here, WIC and SNAP benefits are being cut. We have limited access to early childhood education and to discounted or free daycare. The sickest and most at-risk children in Canada are covered by universal healthcare, as are their parents. They also receive generous parental leave and employee protections.

I’m not dazzled by any country, but the notion of America’s exceptionalism is outdated. If you choose to believe it, that’s your right. However, the rest of the world sees more clearly and recognizes the risks the US poses today.

I stand up for those unable to defend themselves — including the poor, disabled, marginalized, and immigrants — for the Common Good. Every day, I feel shame over what MAGA and the Trump billionaire class have done to our nation.

Democratic socialists prioritize people over corporations, self-interest, and greed. They listen to their constituents and work diligently to address their issues. Sometimes misunderstood as giving handouts after taking from the rich, the reality is that the wealthy have been exploiting others for decades. Those employed often can’t earn enough to reach billionaire status. It’s not about smart investing; it’s about inherited wealth and exploiting tax breaks and entitlements to inflate their riches.

Americans have long prioritized issues such as health care, economic equality, opportunity, child care, and housing. However, when politicians prioritize wealthy donors, ordinary citizens often become disillusioned. Recently, leaders addressing these issues have emerged and been elected, but fearmongers label them communists intent on destroying America. This tactic influences many voters. Democratic socialists propose solutions to persistent problems that have existed for years. The emerging leadership within the Democratic Party seeks to rectify injustices and economic struggles that have burdened society for too long.