The progressive bloc within the House of Representatives, often referred to as "the Squad," is poised for significant growth after the upcoming November elections, with a wave of far-left candidates achieving primary victories across the country. This expansion could lead to a doubling of the group's current membership from seven to 14, potentially increasing its influence on legislative matters.
Several candidates endorsed by groups associated with the Squad have already secured nominations in Democratic primaries. In New York, Claire Valdez won her primary for New York's 7th House District, a reliably blue area. Valdez has advocated for nationwide rent control if elected. Darializa Chevalier also secured the Democratic nomination for New York’s 10th Congressional District after winning her primary in June. Chevalier has drawn attention for past remarks, including attending an anti-Israel rally shortly after the Oct. 7 attacks and expressing views that some have characterized as echoing Kremlin talking points regarding the U.S. role in global conflicts.
Other prospective members include Melat Kiros, a 29-year-old socialist who defeated a long-serving incumbent in Colorado, and Adam Hamawy, an AOC-endorsed plastic surgeon who won his primary in a Democratic district in New Jersey. Frederick Haynes, a pastor from Texas, and Chris Rabb, a self-described Democratic Socialist in Philadelphia, have also won their respective primaries. Rabb, who has championed government-run grocery stores, is assured of taking his seat in November due to the absence of a Republican challenger.
William Lawrence, an activist who co-founded the Sunrise Movement, won his primary in Michigan, though his chances of winning in the swing district are considered uncertain.
The "Squad" moniker originated after the 2018 midterms when Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez posted a photo with Reps. Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, and Ayanna Pressley, labeling them her "Squad." The group is not a formal caucus, lacking official rules or leadership structure, but its members have demonstrated a capacity to influence political discourse and legislative action, such as their involvement in discussions surrounding impeachment proceedings.
The potential increase in the size of this progressive contingent could shift the Democratic Party further to the left, with a former House leadership aide suggesting they are "not going to compromise." The growing presence of these lawmakers is expected to result in them being "the loudest voices pushing for impeachment," according to a Republican consultant. Traders on Polymarket estimate the odds of Democrats regaining control of the House at 88%, which would amplify the impact of this expanding bloc on policy decisions.