Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville has called for a formal "schism" within the Democratic Party, stating he can no longer align with candidates backed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, particularly after recent primary victories. Carville expressed his strong disapproval on his podcast "Politics War Room," highlighting that he cannot be in the same party as candidates whose views he finds unacceptable.
Carville specifically cited Darializa Avila Chevalier, one of three Mamdani-backed candidates who secured primary wins in New York. He stated that Chevalier has made comments he considers beyond the pale, including attacks on interracial relationships and the American flag. "Lady, I ain't in the same party as you. I'm sorry," Carville declared. "I’m just not, and I actually do think it's time for Democrats to talk ‘the S-word.’ ‘Schism.’ I really do."
He elaborated on his stance, suggesting that while the Democratic Party has historically been a "big tent," there are certain views he cannot tolerate. "There's just some s--- that I can't be in the same tent with," Carville said. He proposed negotiating the terms of a separation, indicating his desire to part ways with these elements of the party.
Carville also drew a line regarding views on Israel, stating, "I am totally comfortable in a political party that spends time questioning the policies of the government of Israel. In fact, I'm enthusiastic about that. I don't want to be in a political party that denies the right of the state of Israel to exist. That's just not — I just can't do that."
His podcast co-host, Al Hunt, agreed that these candidates present a gift to Republicans by potentially being portrayed as representatives of the broader Democratic Party. Hunt suggested that prominent Democrats, including former President Obama and other younger party members, should publicly distance themselves from such candidates.
Hunt further warned that if Democrats do not achieve a decisive victory in the upcoming November elections, these candidates could potentially undermine leadership like that of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. While acknowledging that some initial far-left figures, such as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., have evolved into constructive party members, Hunt expressed doubt that the current group of Mamdani-backed candidates possesses similar potential.
Carville concurred with Hunt's assessment, stating he could align with Ocasio-Cortez on many issues but not with candidates like Chevalier. The strategist believes that these primary victories could be detrimental to the party's electoral prospects.