The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) have been awarded $5.2 million in a legal inheritance dispute, nearly doubling the organization's typical annual revenue, according to a new legal filing and tax records. The funds come from the estate of David Greenberg, a New York University professor who died in July 2024.

Greenberg's will specified that the contents of his NYU retirement account be transferred to the New American Movement, a now-defunct left-wing activist group, or "any successor thereof" upon his death. The New American Movement merged with the Democratic Socialist Organizing Committee to form the DSA in 1982, as reported by contemporary left-wing media.

The dispute lasted over a year, with Greenberg's nephew, Martin Hecht, arguing that the DSA failed to file the proper paperwork to be recognized as the legal successor. He also contended that New York University did not fulfill its fiduciary duty by not ensuring the will accurately reflected Greenberg's wishes before his death.

The inheritance award provides the DSA with a major financial boost as it seeks to expand its influence within the Democratic Party. The organization is noted as the largest socialist group in United States history.

In related political activity, on January 20, 2025, DSA members marched in Washington, D.C., carrying signs stating "SOCIALISM BEATS FASCISM," equating the incoming Trump administration to fascism.

Author Evan Barker, in her book "Nothing Left," reveals how wealthy contributors support DSA candidates while disguising themselves as grassroots supporters and utilizing unpaid labor to save millions.

Sources