Only 8 Democrats back House resolution condemning socialism

Only eight House Democrats signed onto a Tuesday resolution condemning socialism, as the measure drew overwhelming opposition from Democrats amid growing popularity on the left of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA).

The resolution, which denounces socialism “in all its forms,” passed the House in a 220-192 vote. Nearly every House Republican supported the measure, with some not casting a vote.

The Republican-backed resolution also called for Congress to enact the SAVE America Act, which would bolster US election security.

The eight Democrats who voted in favor of the resolution were Representatives Don Davis of North Carolina, Jared Golden of Maine, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington, Gabe Vasquez of New Mexico, Vicente Gonzalez of Texas, Henry Cuellar of Texas, Kathy Castor of Florida, and Darren Soto of Florida.

After the vote, Gonzales told reporters that he does not support socialism and does not oppose voter ID requirements.

“Socialism. I don’t know. I’m from the 80s. Socialism is not a good word for us, right?” he said, according to Politico. “And it just never worked. And I think that most Americans don’t agree with some of those proposals.”

Additionally, Democratic Representatives Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire and Chrissy Houlahan of Pennsylvania voted “present.”

The vote comes as some Democratic primary voters have increasingly backed candidates supported by the DSA. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise said, “Not only do we denounce socialism, but also the idea of people that aren't American citizens voting in our elections, because that's part of their platform.”

The resolution nearly failed to reach a final vote after several Republicans voted against a procedural measure to advance the resolution. The Republicans were protesting a short-term government funding bill.

However, Golden and Gluesenkamp joined Republicans in supporting the procedural vote, allowing it to advance. Their decision was condemned by Democratic leadership.

"The decision by two of our colleagues to blindside the entire House Democratic Caucus and join with the Republican majority to pass a procedural rule on the brink of failing represents a significant breach of trust. It is an action that necessitates a serious response, and we have asked the Committee on Caucus Rules to take this up in short order," said House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries in a joint statement with House Minority Whip Katherine Clark and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar.

Jeffries himself had previously said he would vote against the resolution because of the inclusion of the SAVE Act.

"House Republicans continue to desperately push toxic voter suppression legislation instead of working to make life more affordable for everyday Americans in the midst of a searing cost-of-living crisis. House Resolution 1490 explicitly calls for enactment of the so-called SAVE America Act, which is the top legislative priority of far-right extremists," he said.