In this episode, host Dean Charles tackles the shocking results of the recent Democratic primary in New York City, where Zohran Mamdani, a self-identified Democratic Socialist, has won the party’s nomination for mayor. Dean calls this a wake-up call for moderates, arguing that capitalism and socialism cannot coexist in the same party, especially not in the financial capital of America.

He warns listeners about the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) platform, urging everyone to read it and understand what policies like “defund the police,” “abolish prisons,” and massive tax hikes on millionaires could mean for New York City’s economy, jobs, and basic equality.

Dean connects these local developments to a larger vision he calls “AOC’s Project 2029,” predicting that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s growing influence could push the Democratic Party even further left. He argues that the real danger is not just free healthcare or rent control, it’s a shift away from true equality toward a desire to “become the oppressor.”

If you want to understand what’s really at stake for moderates in America’s biggest city, and beyond, this episode is essential listening.

In This Episode:

• [00:10] Dean reacts to NYC’s Democratic primary results

• [01:01] Why the DSA platform is a “recipe for anarchy”

• [02:02] The economic fallout: millionaires, banks, and sports teams

• [02:53] Core DSA policies: defund police, abolish prisons, open borders

• [03:23] Why Democratic Socialists reject equality

• [03:59] How the GOP missed its chance and who could beat Zohran

• [05:28] Dean’s warning: AOC’s “Project 2029”

Notable Quotes

• [00:29] “I have maintained for a long time on my radio show and here on my podcast that the Democrats and the socialists do not belong in the same party.” — Dean Charles

• [00:52] “I have no problem with the socialists having their own party, and I have no problem with the fact that Zohran is Muslim. I have a problem that he's a socialist. I have a problem with socialism.” — Dean Charles

• [03:23] “Most Democrats want equality. The Democratic Party, since JFK was president, was founded on equality. They backed equality, equality for all. The Democratic Socialists don’t want equality.” — Dean Charles

Resources and Links

Between the Left and a Hard Place

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In this timely and passionate episode, host Dean Charles responds to the turbulent political climate following the U.S. bombing of Iran, growing unrest at home, and the visible fracture within the Democratic Party. With a sense of urgency, Dean announces the launch of a powerful new series dedicated to defining what moderate, center-left Democrats truly stand for.

Dean delivers a fiery critique of the party’s current direction, warning that the increasing dominance of socialist ideology and DEI extremism is alienating the majority of Democrats who still identify as moderates. He challenges listeners to reflect on foundational Democratic values invoking Martin Luther King Jr., JFK, and the importance of true equality as he lays the groundwork for a new political vision.

If you've ever wondered where the center-left voice went, this episode marks its return.

In This Episode:

• [00:07] Dean’s reaction to the bombing of Iran and political uncertainty

• [01:08] Introducing the new “Core Principles” series for moderate Democrats

• [02:13] Concerns about socialists in the Democratic Party

• [03:00] Series structure and purpose

• [03:50] What happens if moderates are forced out of the party

• [05:15] First Episode: Focus on equality

  
  

Notable Quotes

• [01:20] “Our principles don’t jive with the socialists, and I don’t believe the socialists and capitalists can coexist in the same party.” — Dean Charles

• [03:40] “If the socialists take over the Democratic Party, we're just going over to the Republicans. I'll take my fight to the Republicans. That's just the bottom line.” — Dean Charles

• [04:33] "People see billionaires and people with hundreds of billions. They feel left out because that's all they see on social media, and they don't feel equal” — Dean Charles

Resources and Links

Between the Left and a Hard Place

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In this episode of Between the Left and a Hard Place, host Dean Charles returns with a direct challenge for the current leader of the Democratic Party: Hakeem Jeffries. Dean demands clarity: Capitalism or Socialism? Arguing that the ideological tug-of-war is fracturing the Democratic base and costing them elections.

Dean doesn’t mince words. He calls on Congressman Jeffries to confront the growing influence of socialist voices in the party, read the DSA political platform, and consider insights from thought leaders like Scott Galloway, featured recently on The Chris Cuomo Project. With only 35 to 40 competitive seats in the House of Representatives, Dean insists now is the time to draw a hard line and define the party’s path forward.

If Democrats want to reclaim the House and gain broader support, Dean believes they must stop straddling the fence, and he puts the pressure squarely on Jeffries to lead the way.

Notable Quotes

• [00:00:31] “You need to pick a side and decide what you are, because I personally don't believe the two can coexist inside the Democratic Party.” — Dean Charles

• [00:01:17] “I am totally in favor of the socialists having their own party. I just don't think they should take over the Democratic Party.” — Dean Charles

• [00:03:25] “You can't continue to be on the wrong side of the 80/20 issues.” — Dean Charles

  
  

Mentioned

• Democratic Socialists of America Political Platform

• The Chris Cuomo Project (Episode with Scott Galloway – June 10)