Socialist candidates are performing well at the moment because many Americans feel deeply discouraged. People who believe they did everything right — got good grades, worked hard, followed the rules — still can’t seem to get ahead. (Socialism would only make their problems worse, yet its promises sound appealing to those in this situation.) President Trump often seems to be the only Republican who recognizes this frustration and speaks directly to these Americans. Republican candidates running against DSA members need a clear message and real solutions for these voters.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Simply dismissing those who are cozying up to socialist candidates as “entitled” or “stupid” will backfire.