Longtime Democratic operative James Carville and fellow “Politics War Room” host Al Hunt criticized a newly successful New York primary candidate, arguing that the political current she represents has no place inside the Democratic coalition.
Darializa Avila Chevalier, a democratic socialist, was among three candidates supported by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani who pulled off unexpected wins in Tuesday’s New York primaries. On Thursday’s episode of “Politics War Room,” Hunt warned that their victories could “complicate the politically existential question of winning in November.”
Both Carville and Hunt said Republicans are exaggerating the significance of the trio by casting them as emblematic of the Democratic Party’s direction. Still, pointing to reporting from The New York Times, they argued Democrats need to draw a clear boundary between the party and candidates with views they consider outside the mainstream.
“I have the quote right here, I’ll get to it. She has attacked interracial relationships and the American flag. Lady, I ain’t in the same party as you. I’m sorry,” Carville said. “I’m just not, and I actually do think it’s time for Democrats to talk ‘the S-word.’ ‘Schism.’ I really do.”
Carville said Democrats often describe themselves as a broad coalition and a “big tent,” but argued there are limits to what that tent can include. “And there’s some – there’s just some s— that I can’t be in the same tent with,” he said.
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He contended that some recent left-wing candidates appear hostile to the Democratic Party even as they seek office under its banner. Carville suggested the party should consider negotiating “terms of a schism,” saying the two sides might be better off separating on mutually workable terms. “I’m done. And I’m not in that f—ing political party,” he said.
Carville added that he has no issue with Democrats forcefully debating or criticizing the Israeli government’s policies, saying he welcomes that kind of discussion. But he drew a sharp distinction at rejecting Israel’s right to exist. “That’s just not — I just can’t do that. I’m sorry. It’s just not doable,” he said.
Hunt agreed, calling the candidates “a great gift to Donald Trump.” He said it would help if prominent Democrats, including figures such as Barack Obama as well as younger party leaders, publicly made clear: “This is not us.”
Hunt also argued that if Democrats do not win a sweeping victory in November, “that group of crazies” will be able to “just sabotage Hakeem Jeffries every step of the way.”
While he said that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., made some trouble for the Democrats in the beginning of her career, he argued that she eventually became a good member. However, Hunt warned, “I don’t think this group has that potential.”
“I don’t either,” Carville agreed. “And I think AOC is smart. I could be in the same party with her in many ways. I can’t be in the same party with Miss Chevalier. Can’t do it. Sorry.”
