California’s Democratic Socialists have made their pick for governor — but they’re not happy about it.
The nation’s largest socialist organization grudgingly threw its weight behind billionaire Tom Steyer, who made a fortune in private equity before blowing nine figures on two political bids — first for the 2020 presidential nod and now for Golden State governor.
“Even if he glibly considers himself a ‘class traitor,’ his wealth was earned through the exploitation of the working class,” the California Democratic Socialists wrote in its voter guide.
“Much of his wealth was also invested in private prisons and coal mining, accumulated by the same things he now decries,” the organization wrote.
“However, the most progressive of the current viable candidates for governor is Tom Steyer. Time will tell whether he’s truly a class traitor,” the group added.
The DSA has about 100,000 members nationwide, according to its website.
Steyer, who ran the private equity shop Farallon Capital, is worth over $2 billion and has spent well over $100 million on his bid for California governor.
Recent polls show him slightly trailing Democratic frontunner Xavier Becerra as he spends heavily on campaign ads promoting his progressive agenda, which includes raising taxes on corporations and billionaires.
Steyer has embraced the “class traitor” label, donning hats and T-shirts bearing the moniker.
The socialists also cited Steyer’s support for trans women competing in sports and his disavowal of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.
