On Monday, August 10, 2026, editors Peter Suderman, Katherine Mangu-Ward, Nick Gillespie, and Matt Welch explored key political shifts in the United States during a Reason podcast episode titled "Are Socialists Actually Leaving Wokeness Behind?"

The discussion highlighted Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's admission that "Woke 1 was crazy" and examined whether the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) are genuinely moving away from the politics of 2020 by focusing on affordability. The editors debated the practicality of the DSA's economic agenda and why affordability has become a compelling message on the left.

The conversation also addressed how the rising cost of living is fueling infighting on the right, including an online debate over $20 burritos and broader disagreements on tariffs, immigration, and the Iran war. Additionally, they discussed former President Donald Trump's latest attempt to end birthright citizenship and the controversy surrounding Jason Arday's plagiarism at Cambridge University, reflecting ongoing ideological challenges in academia.

A listener question about whether large CEO pay packages amid widespread layoffs weaken the case for capitalism was also considered. Nick Gillespie announced he would discuss THC, INC., in New York City on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, with tickets available for free but requiring reservation.

Notable points included the observation that Abdul El-Sayed denies being a socialist despite a policy agenda suggesting otherwise, and the assertion that socialists are increasingly influencing the Democratic Party.

Sources

Quotes

  • "15:19—Conservatives debate the cost of burritos 28:49—Trump's birthright citizenship order Nick Gillespie discusses THC, INC., on Tuesday, August 11, in New York City. Tickets are free but must be reserved."
  • "Abdul El-Sayed Says He's Not a Socialist. His Policy Agenda Says Otherwise."
  • "Socialists Are Trying To Take Hold of the Democratic Party—and They're Winning."
  • "The 'Affordability' Agenda That Taxes Your Dinner."
  • "Can You Imagine a Future Where Adults Don't Believe in Socialism?"