Whenever I come across someone on the right calling Joe Biden a socialist—which happens far too often—I can’t help but chuckle. It’s a genuine laugh because, honestly? Those making such claims reveal their lack of understanding about socialism, their ignorance of Biden’s voting history, and their susceptibility to fear-based conservative rhetoric. While the situation isn’t exactly humorous, I laugh to keep from crying.
Biden secured both the nomination and the presidency because he embodies progressivism without crossing the line into socialism. He served as a stabilizing force—essentially a tourniquet—aimed at halting the bleeding caused by Trump’s presidency. Many voters chose him for this very reason; they feared that a more divisive candidate, like Bernie Sanders—who openly identifies as a democratic socialist—or any qualified woman, might not garner enough votes to unseat Trump. Biden’s platform was progressive enough to resonate with many, yet moderate enough to avoid alienating centrist Democrats. He was like a plain cracker among presidential candidates—not everyone’s top pick, but certainly a preferable alternative to gravel.
However, it’s crucial to clarify: President Biden is not—and has never been—a socialist. A glance at his voting record would show any passionate Trump supporter that he’s simply a typical moderate Democrat. Yes, he advocates for quality public education, supports women’s rights regarding their bodies, and believes no one should lose their home due to a medical crisis. These are indeed progressive views, but it’s also fair to say that Biden’s platform has shifted somewhat left since his nomination, aligning more closely with progressive ideals.
Nevertheless, Biden is firmly rooted in the belief in private enterprise and a free market, where competition drives innovation. He has never suggested that the government should take control of production means—it’s almost laughable to think otherwise. But that’s the narrative some on the right want to push.
So, what exactly is socialism?
Socialism can take many forms. If you’re getting your information from far-right organizations like the Heritage Foundation, you might think socialism is merely a state-controlled economy where classes are nonexistent and everyone has the same amount—essentially, everyone having nothing. Their definition paints socialism as a cruel system enforced by political tyranny, complete with lines for bread.
In contrast, proponents of social democracy, like Bernie Sanders, argue for a government that ensures basic needs are met while also promoting equitable opportunities. Social democracies encourage entrepreneurship and allow for privately owned, profitable businesses to thrive within a regulated market designed to foster competition and innovation. They imagine a society where individuals aren’t devastated by health crises or exorbitant educational costs.
Conservatives often misrepresent social democracy to conflate it with socialism and communism. They pose misleading questions designed to sow doubt and confusion. For example, they might ask how a society can be both socialist and entrepreneurial, knowing full well that people can support both ideas simultaneously. They ask if millennials would prefer socialism if it meant giving up their personal belongings, like their smartphones, demonstrating a willful ignorance of the actual principles involved.
Yet, many still buy into the notion that Biden is a socialist or, worse, a communist. I recall a Trump supporter on my social media expressing outrage over “socialists” taking control, worrying about her—wait for it—social security.
This fear-mongering is particularly frustrating because those most fearful of social democracy often stand to benefit the most from it. The very individual terrified of socialism clings to social security, one of the most socialist programs in the U.S. Imagine if she realized that she wouldn’t have to pay for private education if public schools remained available, or if she could replace high healthcare costs with lower taxes while still receiving necessary care.
And while Biden isn’t a socialist, many Americans are beginning to see the advantages of a social democratic system. Many believe it’s unacceptable for 1% of the population to hold such a disproportionate share of wealth, and many see healthcare as a fundamental human right. A free college education funded through taxes could ultimately enrich the nation. The idea of having a true social democrat in office—perhaps even someone not fitting the traditional mold—appeals to a significant portion of the electorate.