SUMMARY

Progressive Democrats dominated New York's midterm primary elections in a resounding show of strength for the Democratic Socialist mayor of New York City. All three candidates endorsed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani won their races, two of them ousting sitting congressmen.

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NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What do you want to learn more about? You can also make a Google doc copy of these general discussion questions.

News alternative: Check our recent segments from the News Hour and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. See the Google doc above for discussion questions.

WARM-UP QUESTIONS

1. Who is Zohran Mamdani and how did he influence the Democratic congressional primaries in New York?
2. What are the key policies goals of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA)?
3. When are the midterm elections? Do the results of last week's primaries impact your thoughts on the likely outcome?
4. Where have DSA candidates experienced success?
5. Why does Brigid Bergin argue that New Yorkers, in particular, are frustrated with Democratic leadership? Which high-profile, unpopular congressional leaders represent New York?

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS

1. Why do you think the DSA's messaging on affordability and the United States's relationship to Israel has been able to galvanize (excite) voters so effectively?
2. Do you think Democratic incumbents across the United States are vulnerable to challengers from the left or only those in highly-educated, metropolitan areas, such as New York City?

Media literacy: Watch this conversation about the primary results (from 3:25 to 7:27) between political commentators David Brooks and Jonathan Capehart on News Hour. Answer the following questions:

1. Capehart argues that the growing influence of the DSA is a trend specific to New York while Brooks believes it to be a symptom of a realignment of the Democratic Party. Who do you agree with? Explain.
2. What do you make of Brooks's argument that "faculty lounge politics" have replaced labor unions as the driving force of the Democratic Party? What evidence does he use to support this claim?

WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO

Students can read the New York Times article, "Here’s What It Means to Be a Democratic Socialist." When you are done reading, write down one Democratic Socialist policy you agree with and one you are unsure about. Explain why and share your thoughts with family and/or friends.

Written by PBS News Hour Classroom's Intern Henry Mode and Vic Pasquantonio.

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