Sanders, Ocasio-Cortez Back Progressives in 2026 Battleground Primaries

4 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 24

Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are stepping deeper into 2026 House and Senate primaries, trying to lift progressive candidates in competitive districts as Democrats chase control of Congress.
California’s Randy Villegas has become a test case: the Medicare-for-all backer is running in the conservative Central Valley against Republican Representative David Valadao while touting endorsements from both national progressives.
Republicans are attacking Villegas as a socialist out of step with the district and are also spending to boost him over a more moderate Democrat, betting he would be an easier general-election opponent.
Sanders argues a working-class populist message can win "in almost every part of the country," reflecting a broader progressive push to prove left-wing candidates can compete beyond safely liberal seats.

When outside groups attack a candidate, can this spending paradoxically boost their primary campaign?

Does a populist economic message resonate more when detached from a major party label?

How can states overcome federal hurdles and massive costs to implement universal healthcare?