Two prominent leaders within the New York City chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) are facing criticism for their significant real estate holdings, which critics contend contradict their political platform. These revelations have sparked debate within the organization and among political observers.
Olivia Gonzalez Killingsworth, the DSA's labor coordinator, sold a three-bedroom triplex on the Upper West Side for $2.4 million in September 2022. Public records indicate the property, located a block from Central Park, featured 10-foot ceilings, a fireplace, and marble shower stalls. Killingsworth stated she inherited the triplex from her aunt and that the sale allowed her to purchase a one-bedroom apartment in Brooklyn for $521,000 shortly after, which she described as providing "the privilege of stable housing."
Approximately $500,000 from the triplex sale was used to purchase her new Brooklyn residence, a one-bedroom co-op bought in September 2022. This apartment, located near Prospect Park, boasts high ceilings and skyline views. Killingsworth, who also runs a bookkeeping business and has a background as an actor and singer, was elected labor coordinator in 2025.
Another DSA leader, Steering Committee chair Julie Swoope, owns a one-bedroom co-op in Brooklyn valued at $510,000. Records show the apartment was purchased in 2021. Swoope defended her financial standing and that of other DSA members, stating on social media that it is "not hypocritical to want others to enjoy the economic security that you do." She added that she was able to become a property owner after residing in a rent-stabilized apartment.
The properties owned by Killingsworth and Swoope are reportedly more than $100,000 above the average home price in the United States, which stood at $387,400 according to 2026 U.S. Census and Department of Housing and Urban Development data. This has led to accusations that the two leaders are out of touch with the approximately 70% of New York City residents who are renters.
These individuals join NYC DSA co-chair Gustavo Gordillo, whose father reportedly purchased a $1.5 million townhouse in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, for him. Gordillo, a Yale-educated sculptor, was previously removed from the electricians union for alleged job abandonment.
The scrutiny highlights a tension between the socialist ideals espoused by some DSA members and their personal financial realities. Critics argue that such wealth accumulation is incompatible with a platform advocating for wealth redistribution and the interests of the working class.