Democrats worry rising socialism turning off Hispanic voters

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The Hill's Headlines (PM) - September 3, 2026

The Hill's Headlines (PM) - September 3, 2026

Democrats have been trying to regain lost ground with Hispanic voters since the bruising 2024 election. 

But as they attempt to win back voters who migrated to the GOP, Democrats are also gripping with the rise of democratic socialism within their own party — a movement they see as a turnoff to some Hispanic voters, particularly the older set who hail from nations like Cuba and Venezuela. 

Democratic strategists say while they may prevail in the midterms, they worry that the socialism label will take hold in the 2028 presidential election if centrists in their party don’t sound the alarm. 

“Socialism is a nonstarter in places like Florida, where there are big swaths of Hispanic voters,” said one Democratic strategist in the state. “The word in and of itself is toxic.”

The strategist pointed to Florida state Rep. Angie Nixon, the Democratic candidate who is running for Senate in the Sunshine State. Her association with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) will hurt her chances of winning in Florida, said the strategist.

It’s been noted that the DSA did not endorse Nixon, who was well known in Florida for her progressive views before her upset win in a Democratic primary this summer over Alex Vindman, who had been a heavy favorite.

But the strategist said Nixon joining the DSA will speak volumes with voters, adding, “You can’t be half-pregnant.” 

“The toothpaste is out of the tube, and I don’t think she can navigate that. She’s getting........

© The Hill