Two unfolding forces will shape significantly the short-term future of the Democratic Party, officials tell us: • The popularity of socialist candidates and ideas, especially among grassroots Democrats. • AI increasing energy costs, joblessness and inequality.

Why it matters: Both of these trends are accelerating and spilling into national politics in high-profile ways.

This future was captured vividly on Sunday in New York, where Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Zohran Mamdani and democratic socialist allies electrified a jam-packed stadium in Queens for a mayoral race. • Chants of "Tax the rich!" roared at the "New York Is Not for Sale" rally. Young people cheered wildly. It was a stunning socialist celebration.

It's not just a New York thing.

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