DSA in headlines as rising leftist force shaping NYC politics and US protests; big tent socialist group now over 100k members. #DSA
A convoy of left-wing activists, including streamer Hasan Piker and members of Code Pink, traveled to Cuba to deliver aid and support the regime. They stayed in luxury hotels during widespread blackouts and shortages, drawing criticism for their performative activism and disregard for local hardships.
Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has shifted her stance on US military aid to Israel, stating she will oppose funding for Israel's defensive systems, including the Iron Dome, citing Israel's ability to fund its own defense and concerns over international law. The change follows her previous support and recent criticism of aid policies.
Labor unions, community groups and democratic organisations have been organising a nationwide May Day "economic blackout" for 1 May, calling for "no school, no work, no shopping". Organisers say events have more than doubled from last year and that city-wide actions are being planned in Los Angeles, Chicago and elsewhere to press immigration, voting and workers' rights.
Tom Steyer is under renewed pressure over his position on a moratorium for new data centers as voters weigh affordability and climate policy ahead of the June 2 primary. Greenpeace has disputed his current stance after his comments in a campaign survey.
The Los Angeles mayoral primary remains undecided as ballots continue to be counted. Bass has advanced to the November runoff, while Raman has gained a narrow lead over Pratt for the second slot as mail ballots are tallied.
The city is pushing large-scale housing reforms, with mayoral plans to expand affordable housing and convert unused properties underway. But residents in Mitchell-Lama Tracey Towers face a 30.6% rent hike over four years to cover mortgage and operating costs, highlighting the tension between expansion and affordability.