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What happens when the Democratic Party that champions democracy can't handle democratic outcomes? Zoran Mondani's grassroots victory has triggered not celebration but suspicion among Democratic powerbrokers, revealing a party in crisis – caught between its progressive base and establishment fears.

Edward Williams takes you deep into this contradiction, examining how the same Democrats who chant "vote blue no matter who" suddenly fall silent when voters choose someone outside their comfort zone. From lukewarm acknowledgments by Hakeem Jeffries to Lawrence Summers calling Mondani's agenda "profoundly alarming," the establishment response follows a familiar playbook: caution, criticism, and quiet undermining of their own democratically chosen candidate.

The controversy surrounding phrases like "globalize the intifada" serves as a perfect case study in political courage versus convenience. Without evidence that Mondani ever used this phrase, critics demand denunciations while ignoring the larger context. Meanwhile, polling shows younger Democrats have dramatically shifted on issues like Israel-Palestine, demanding justice alongside peace – a reality the establishment seems determined to ignore.

This episode doesn't just analyze a single campaign but examines a critical crossroads for Democratic politics. Will the party continue surrendering to donor interests and outdated strategies, or embrace the courage shown by leaders like Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez who stand by Mondani? The answer matters not just for New York City but for progressive politics nationwide.

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and share this episode to support voices that speak truth to power. Remember – the path forward requires standing firmly on the right side of history, even when that means challenging your own party's leadership.