A recent Gallup survey conducted between August 3 and 24 indicates that socialism has achieved its highest popularity rating in the United States since tracking began in 2010. Forty-three percent of Americans now hold a positive view of socialism, surpassing big business, which has dropped to a positive rating of 35% from a peak of 58% in 2012. While capitalism (55%) and free enterprise (77%) remain more popular than socialism overall, both have seen declines from their respective peaks in 2010 and 2012.
The data underscores a stark partisan divide. Support for socialism is heavily concentrated among Democrats, with 65% viewing it favorably in the latest poll. This represents a significant shift from 2010, when only 50% of Democrats held positive views, and follows a period where Democratic socialists, led by figures such as Bernie Sanders, gained national prominence during the 2016 presidential cycle.
Progressive and democratic socialist candidates have recently secured notable victories in Democratic primaries, a trend analysts have described as a “DSA summer.” These wins include Zohran Mamdani’s election as New York City mayor and primary successes in congressional races in New York, Colorado, and Pennsylvania. Similar advancements were observed in high-profile Senate races in Michigan and Minnesota. In response, Republicans have intensified their opposition, with the House passing resolutions denouncing socialism in November 2025 and again earlier this year.
Independents have also contributed to the overall rise in socialism’s favorability, with positive ratings jumping from 37% last year to 45%, overtaking big business among this group. Conversely, only 14% of Republicans view socialism positively, while large majorities continue to favor small business, free enterprise, and capitalism.
Generational differences further illuminate the shift. Among Americans aged 18 to 34, 57% view socialism positively compared to 43% for capitalism. In contrast, those aged 55 and older favor capitalism at a rate of 65% to 34%. Younger respondents also reported greater economic anxiety; 54% of adults under 30 believe their opportunities for success are worse than those of their parents, and 61% described the U.S. economic system as unfair.
Despite the rising numbers, polls suggest the American public maintains a complex relationship with economic labels. A CBS/YouGov poll found that 75% of Democrats, 62% of independents, and 54% of Republicans support government price controls. Additionally, a Data for Progress survey indicated that 70% of respondents believe the current economic system is rigged in favor of corporations and the wealthy.
75% of Democrats want price controls yet we’re debating labels? People clearly just want stability, regardless of what the politicians call it.
Interesting that independents now prefer socialism over big business. I wonder if this trend holds as economic pressures continue to mount.
Wow, only 14% of Republicans like socialism? That partisan chasm is terrifying. We are truly two different countries now.