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Grace Mousser is the co-president of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) of New York City,and has played a key role in the success of the campaign for mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. Alongside co-president Gustavo Gordillo, she serves as one of his main political advisors. Mousser also focuses on building and coordinating the volunteer network responsible for grassroots canvassing – going door-to-door to speak directly with voters.
Mobilizing Volunteers in Little Haiti
The meeting point in the Little Haiti district of Brooklyn is a children’s playground. The volunteer group is diverse,ranging from young activists to individuals in their seventies. Volunteers receive lists of homes to target for door-knocking.
In this crucial final phase of the campaign, the focus shifts from persuading undecided voters to solidifying existing support and expanding it. The goal is to mobilize those already committed to Mamdani and actively involve them in getting out the vote.
Apparently, at least in New York, socialist is no longer an insult.
The DSA and othre left-wing groups have been organizing in New York for decades, but a concerted and serious electoral project began in 2017. Before Zohran Mamdani’s candidacy, tens of thousands of voters had already been exposed to a socialist candidate, diminishing the stigma associated with the term. Mousser believes Zohran’s success is built on this foundation.
“We cannot forget that Bernie sanders popularized the democratic socialist term in his presidential races in 2016 and 2020,” Mousser explains. “The field work, combined with the popularity of Bernie, helped us.In addition, as the election of Donald Trump, a growing number of Americans are disappointed with the democratic Party and are seeking a genuine choice, making them more receptive to socialist ideas. But also as we are faced with a real threat of fascism.”
Key Takeaways
- The DSA in New York City has been building a strong base of support as 2017.
- Bernie Sanders’ campaigns played a significant role in normalizing democratic socialist ideas.
- disappointment with mainstream political parties is driving increased openness to socialist alternatives.
- Concerns about the rise of fascism are also contributing to this shift.
Publication Date: 2025/10/07 06:50:03