South Bay socialist group’s membership swells ahead of election season

Mirroring the growth of an energized national socialist movement in the U.S., the South Bay chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America has been expanding rapidly — and the group is flexing its growing political muscle this election cycle as it organizes in support of progressive ballot measures.

Just a few years ago, Silicon Valley DSA — a local affiliate of the national organization that encompasses Santa Clara County as well as portions of the Peninsula — faced high attrition rates and lacked a visible community presence, representatives said. But over the past year, the organization has seen its membership rolls increase by nearly 40%, growing to more than 800 people.