New York City, November 26, 2025
The Communist Party USA (CPUSA) has made a notable return to American politics with the recent election of Hannah Shvets to the Ithaca Common Council, marking their first electoral win in 40 years. With significant voter support, this shift symbolizes a growing acceptance of socialist principles within local governance. As the political landscape changes, the CPUSA’s comeback raises questions about the future of leftist movements in the U.S.
New York City, NY – The Communist Party USA (CPUSA) has made a significant comeback in American politics, winning elections at the local level after a 40-year absence from elected office. This resurgence was highlighted by the election of Hannah Shvets to the Ithaca Common Council in New York, where she secured 64.12% of the vote, defeating an independent candidate for the city’s Ward 5 seat. Shvets, a student at Cornell University, ran on the Democratic and Working Families Party lines.
The CPUSA’s recent victories in the November 2025 elections indicate a growing acceptance of socialist and leftist movements in the U.S. political landscape. This marks the first time in decades that members of the party have held elected positions, historically having faced significant challenges in securing voters’ support.
In the past, the CPUSA has had limited electoral success, with a few members holding positions in local governments and one state office. For example, Wahsayah Whitebird served on the Ashland, Wisconsin, City Council from 2019 to 2021.
The return of the CPUSA to the political arena reflects changing dynamics in local and national politics, suggesting a shift in voters’ sentiments and the potential for more candidates aligned with socialist principles to emerge in future elections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Communist Party USA (CPUSA)?
The CPUSA is a political party in the United States that advocates for Marxist-Leninist principles and has historically focused on labor rights, social justice, and anti-imperialism.
When did the CPUSA last hold elected office before this recent election?
Before the recent election, the CPUSA had not held elected office in the United States for approximately 40 years.
Who is Hannah Shvets?
Hannah Shvets is a Cornell University student and member of the CPUSA who was elected to the Ithaca Common Council in New York, defeating an independent candidate for the city’s Ward 5 seat.
What other CPUSA members have held elected office in the past?
Historically, CPUSA members have held positions in local governments and one state office. For example, Wahsayah Whitebird served on the Ashland, Wisconsin, City Council from 2019 to 2021.
What does the CPUSA’s recent electoral success indicate?
The CPUSA’s recent electoral successes reflect a resurgence of socialist and leftist movements in the U.S., signaling a growing acceptance of their platform in local politics.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | CPUSA members elected to local offices after 40-year hiatus |
| Notable Candidate | Hannah Shvets elected to Ithaca Common Council, Ward 5 |
| Historical Context | CPUSA members previously held local and state offices; last elected officeholder was Wahsayah Whitebird in 2019-2021 |
| Political Implication | Resurgence of socialist and leftist movements in U.S. politics |
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