Bruce Blakeman: Socialist wing has taken control of the Democratic Party

New York Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman told Fox News Digital that the socialist wing has taken control of the Democratic Party and that traditional Democrats will vote for Republicans this year.

Scraper SystemJune 25, 2026, 09:03 PM

Bruce Blakeman: Socialist wing has taken control of the Democratic Party

New York Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman, in an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, said the Democratic Party has shifted to the far left and the socialist wing has taken over the party. Blakeman argued this would steer traditional Democratic voters toward Republicans.

In Tuesday's primaries, Darializa Avila Chevalier, Claire Valdez, and Brad Lander, backed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, won their respective races. Blakeman said the results highlighted the growing influence of the party's progressive wing, stating, "The crazy leftists have taken over the Democratic Party. They've lost control of the party."

Mamdani's Rise and Socialist Policies

Blakeman argued that Mamdani's rapid rise is evidence of the increasing influence of socialists in the party. He claimed that publicly funded programs such as government-run grocery stores might be politically popular but would fail. "Free food markets are complete nonsense. The government should not compete with the private sector," he said.

The Republican candidate argued that the policies advocated by progressive candidates would harm small businesses and accelerate the exodus of residents and employers from New York. Instead, he said the focus should be on lowering taxes, reducing energy costs, and creating a more business-friendly environment.

Reaction to Hochul as 'Comrade Kathy'

Blakeman also targeted New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat. He argued that Hochul is at least as radical as Mamdani and that she cannot stand up to the party's left wing. "They are moving in lockstep. I now call her 'Comrade Kathy,'" he said.

Blakeman previously received the endorsement of former President Donald Trump. While noting that he values Trump's support, Blakeman emphasized that voters should primarily focus on shared concerns such as affordability, public safety, and lower taxes.

Traditional Democrats May Shift to Republicans

Arguing that traditional Democrats unhappy with their party's direction will join the Republican ranks, Blakeman said, "Traditional Democrats see their party is at a dead end. They don't like it. The only way to prevent their party's destruction is to join us."

Blakeman claimed that socialist candidates are offering voters unrealistic promises that cannot be fulfilled. The offices of Mamdani and Hochul did not respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

Bruce Blakeman: Socialist wing has taken control of the Democratic Party