Hoover Institution senior fellow Victor Davis Hanson argued that the growth of democratic socialism in the United States is being driven primarily by affluent Americans rather than working-class voters during an appearance on Fox News’ Hannity.
In conversation with host Sean Hannity, Hanson described democratic socialism as a “top-down phenomenon,” asserting that 85 percent of its members identify as white and that a majority hold college degrees. Hanson stated that many supporters live in wealthy urban enclaves and characterized the movement as “a train wreck for the Democratic Party.”
To support his argument, Hanson pointed to several prominent figures associated with progressive or socialist politics. He cited Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, streamer Hasan Piker, and Representative Ro Khanna, noting their personal wealth and lifestyles as evidence that the ideology appeals to privileged backgrounds rather than working-class communities or working-class minorities.
Hanson specifically criticized Piker’s purchase of a luxury home in West Hollywood and highlighted Khanna’s family assets, arguing that high-profile figures pushing socialist ideas do not reflect traditional working-class struggles.
Hanson also targeted foreign-born progressive figures and immigrants who support left-wing policies, claiming they had left failed states only to support similar political models in the U.S. He argued that figures advocating for socialism avoid labeling themselves as socialists or communists on the ballot because doing so would be “a death knell in a race,” while non-politicians on digital platforms push the ideology from the sidelines.
Host Sean Hannity expressed concern over the political momentum of left-wing candidates, describing the push as a serious national threat.
Hannity warned viewers to take upcoming midterm elections seriously, cautioning that low conservative turnout could allow progressive candidates to win office and alter core American institutions. Hannity also stressed the importance of passing election integrity measures, including the SAVE Act.
Turning to electoral predictions, Hanson acknowledged that midterms historically favor the party out of power. However, he argued that Republicans hold advantages due to recent redistricting, favorable economic conditions, and campaign messaging. Hanson suggested that conservative campaigns could win races simply by running ads featuring clips of progressive candidates’ own statements, pointing to successful past messaging like “They are for they/them and we are for you.”
“These are very dangerous people and they’re very ignorant people,” Hanson said during the broadcast. “They have degrees, but they’re not educated. Ignorant and arrogant is a very dangerous combination.”
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