President Donald Trump recently warned that communism could threaten the U.S. if Democrats win the upcoming midterm elections. During a visit to North Dakota’s Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, he claimed, “It’s the biggest threat to our country, including World War I, World War II, Pearl Harbor, September 11th.” Last week, at the Faith & Freedom Coalition’s 2026 policy conference, he labeled Democrats as “hard core, godless Communists.” These statements follow primary victories by democratic socialist candidates, reminiscent of Trump’s past political narratives.
Experts argue that Trump’s claims, echoed by Vice President J.D. Vance and other Republican leaders, are inaccurate. No candidate openly affiliated with the U.S. Communist Party has been elected to state or federal office. While some Democrats express support for certain communist ideas, experts maintain that most advocate for a market-based economy. Marc Selverstone of the University of Virginia emphasizes that major Democratic figures do not identify as communists, though the label can marginalize them.
Understanding Democratic Socialism
Democrats aligned with socialism or democratic socialism still differ from basic communist ideals, like abolishing private property or central planning. Instead, democratic socialists seek a more extensive social safety net within democratic structures. Their movement often includes goals such as universal healthcare and increased taxes on the wealthy.
Some democratic socialists, like those in the Democratic Socialists of America, a political and activist organization, not a party. Many expect to enhance corporate regulation while maintaining democratic principles.
Trump’s Use of Labels
Over time, Trump has labeled opponents as communists or socialists, outlining its effectiveness. In August 2024, he shared with reporters his strategy to label Democratic opponents like then-Vice President Kamala Harris as “communists.” His rhetoric continues to frame Democrats as radicals.
In response, Kendall Witmer of the Democratic National Committee remarked on Trump’s strategy as “grasping at straws” ahead of the midterms. White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales stated that the Democrats’ socialism aligns with an existential threat to the nation, and assured that Trump would highlight their radicalism.
The Role of the Communist Party Today
Communist Party USA maintains a small role in current U.S. politics, numbering around 20,000 members. Co-chair Joe Sims stated that recent Democratic candidates do not accurately represent the party’s membership. He argued that they don’t align with Marxist traditions.
Examples like Darializa Avila Chevalier, labeled a democratic socialist, and Graham Platner’s criticisms for past comments highlight the scrutiny candidates face. Both have denied affiliations with communism.
Harvey Klehr, a specialist in American communism, mentions that although some Democrats support ideas linked to communism, few consider themselves Communist Party members. Historically, U.S. politicians have labeled opponents as communist, often without evidence, as seen in the 1950s McCarthy era.
Maurice Isserman from Hamilton College explains that accusations of communism remain part of the Republican arsenal. These accusations aim to discredit political opponents as un-American.
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