Mike Gonzalez, a senior fellow at the Heritage Foundation who fled communist Cuba in the 1970s, expressed concerns about a growing socialist influence in American politics in an interview with Fox News Digital. Gonzalez warned that an increasing presence of socialist candidates could lead to multiple communist representatives in Congress.

In his conversation, Gonzalez equated the shift within the Democratic Party to a takeover by “body snatchers,” reducing resistance to the influx of socialist ideology. He predicted a significant number of communists entering the House of Representatives under the current political circumstances.

“We’re going to get communists in double digits in the House of Representatives at least,” Gonzalez stated, emphasizing his concerns.

Across the U.S., socialists gain political ground. Noteworthy victories include the election of socialist mayors such as Zohran Mamdani in New York City, and Katie Wilson in Seattle, as well as socialist congressional candidates defeating traditional Democratic figures. In Colorado, socialist Melat Kiros won against long-term Democrat Rep. Diana DeGette, showcasing the momentum of socialist candidates.

Gonzalez argued that for Marx and Engels, socialism and communism were interchangeable terms. He explained that this current surge stems from various factors such as a lack of immigrant assimilation into American culture, increased dissatisfaction with the U.S., and economic challenges like affordability issues in urban areas.

A significant portion of support stems from White youths experiencing guilt over various issues, as Gonzalez highlighted:

“They have gone to very expensive Ivy League schools and they’re trying to make a living in New York City without being a banker. Sorry, you’re going to have an affordability crisis,” Gonzalez stated.

He noted socialist promises, such as free public services, appealing to those facing economic difficulties.

Neetu Arnold of the Manhattan Institute echoed similar concerns, saying socialism permeates throughout cities beyond New York. Arnold believes the rising trend may push politics towards extremity.

“What the socialist candidates have tapped into are real frustrations and grievances,” Arnold said, pointing out that proposed solutions involve more government intervention rather than solving core problems.

Arnold expressed hope that all political groups recognize the threat of socialist policies to American values, which include merit, wealth, and upward mobility. She highlighted the importance of free market opportunities in transforming her life and warned against constraints imposed by socialist agendas.

Her concern stressed an urgent need for both major parties to address the socialist surge seriously.

Peter Pinedo covers politics for Fox News Digital.