Roy Cooper Advocates for Inclusive Democratic Party Amidst Rising Socialist Influence

<p>Roy Cooper, the former governor of North Carolina and a Democratic candidate for the Senate, has expressed support for a broad approach within the Democratic Party to include socialist candidates endorsed by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). In a video obtained by Fox News Digital, Cooper stated that he would not sign the "Promise to America," a document rejecting socialist positions promoted by moderate Democrats.</p><p>Cooper remarked, "I don’t see any need to," emphasizing the importance of a diverse party, especially as the Republican Party faces internal challenges. He noted, "I think we need to have all kinds of folks to be a part of our party."</p><p>Cooper is campaigning to succeed retiring Senator Thom Tillis, a Republican, in a state that has historically leaned Republican. His comments raise questions about the compatibility of moderate Democratic platforms with the DSA's objectives, which include proposals such as abolishing the U.S. Senate and establishing public ownership of corporations.</p><p>The DSA outlines its vision on its website, stating, "You have no debt. You don’t need health insurance. You don’t pay a mortgage or have a landlord, because comfortable housing is a human right. Your retirement is publicly funded. Food, education, energy, medicine and transportation aren’t for-profit businesses; they are common goods and utilities."</p><p>Although Cooper is not affiliated with the DSA, he has positioned himself as a candidate capable of bipartisan cooperation, highlighting his experience working with a Republican-controlled legislature during his governorship from 2017 to 2025. He has addressed concerns regarding his association with the DSA, stating, "For the record, no," when asked if he identifies as a communist. He emphasized his commitment to prioritizing the interests of North Carolinians over party politics.</p><p>Cooper’s campaign declined to comment on whether his platform conflicts with DSA views, asserting that his commitments are directed towards his constituents. His campaign stated, "The only pledge Roy makes is to the people of North Carolina. Roy is not a socialist, and he will work with anyone, including Republicans, as he has done his entire career to lower costs for hardworking families and fight for North Carolina."</p><p>Some Republicans, including Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, have expressed skepticism about Cooper's stance, suggesting that moderate Democrats are hesitant to confront the progressive wing of their party. Cruz remarked, "That dynamic is dangerous right now because they are terrified of the extreme left. Finding a middle ground on ideological issues right now is … the prospects for success, particularly between now and election day, are not high."</p><p>In the video interview, Cooper articulated his belief that the party must unify to effectively challenge the current administration. He stated, "Particularly now when we’re in such difficult straits, and we’re in a foxhole right now. We’ve all got to be together to take our government back." He added, "We could fall to the autocracy anytime we don’t stick together. So, I don’t see the need signing something."</p><p>Having secured the Democratic nomination, Cooper is set to compete in the general election on November 3 against Republican nominee Michael Whatley, the former chair of the Republican National Committee.</p>