*Work in Progress*
This page is currently being updated to better reflect the structure, practices, and electoral strategy of the Inland Empire chapter of Democratic Socialists of America. Some information may change as the chapter continues developing and refining its electoral processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Inland Empire DSA endorsement for a candidate or ballot measure?
You’ve probably seen candidates or ballot measures promoted as “endorsed” by organizations or public figures. An endorsement means that the organization is actively supporting that campaign and encouraging others to do the same.
When Inland Empire DSA endorses a candidate or ballot measure, it means the chapter is prepared to dedicate real member labor and organizing capacity toward that effort. This can include canvassing, phone banking, voter outreach, political education, social media work, fundraising support, and other organizing activities.
An endorsement signals that a campaign is a major political priority for the chapter. Because endorsements require substantial member time and energy, the chapter issues them selectively and only when there is enough member enthusiasm and organizational capacity to sustain meaningful work.
For statewide races and ballot measures, Inland Empire DSA generally defers to the recommendations and endorsements made by California DSA and its statewide electoral process. Local chapter electoral work remains focused primarily on campaigns and issues directly connected to the Inland Empire and surrounding region.
What is an Inland Empire DSA recommendation for a candidate or ballot measure?
In addition to endorsements, Inland Empire DSA may issue recommendations through voter guides or other electoral materials.
Unlike endorsements, recommendations do not necessarily come with a commitment of chapter resources or organized campaign activity. Recommendations are generally developed through research and discussion by members involved in electoral organizing and political education work.
A recommendation should not be understood as a commitment of chapter labor, official campaign partnership, or permission to use chapter branding or logos.
What am I committing to as a member if I seek an Inland Empire DSA endorsement?
Endorsements require real organizing capacity. Members seeking an endorsement should be prepared to help build and sustain the campaign effort if the endorsement passes.
This includes helping organize volunteers, participate in outreach efforts, attend campaign events, and contribute to the work necessary to make the endorsement meaningful. Successful socialist electoral campaigns depend on sustained member involvement and collective organizing.
What am I committing to as a candidate if I seek an Inland Empire DSA endorsement?
Candidates seeking endorsement should understand that Inland Empire DSA approaches electoral work as part of a broader socialist organizing strategy.
Candidates are generally expected to:
- Publicly identify with democratic socialist politics and support working class organizing.
- Refuse corporate, fossil fuel, police union, and major real estate developer money.
- Support policies that expand universal social programs and strengthen working class power.
- Remain accountable to movement organizations and grassroots organizing efforts after election.
- Work collaboratively with DSA members and allied organizations where possible.
Because the chapter has limited capacity, not every candidate aligned with these values will necessarily receive an endorsement.
Who can initiate the endorsement process?
Only members in good standing of Inland Empire DSA may initiate an endorsement process.
Members involved in initiating endorsements should be prepared to help organize the campaign effort and coordinate with other chapter members throughout the process.
The chapter may also establish additional conflict-of-interest guidelines or campaign participation requirements as needed to remain compliant with campaign finance laws and maintain political independence.
What does the endorsement process generally look like?
While the exact process may evolve over time, endorsements typically involve:
- Submission of an endorsement request or petition by chapter members.
- Research and political evaluation of the candidate or ballot measure.
- Opportunities for member discussion and questions.
- A recommendation process through the chapter’s electoral organizers or committee structure.
- A democratic vote of eligible chapter members.
- Formation of organizing structures or working groups if the endorsement passes.
Specific thresholds, timelines, and procedures may vary depending on the election cycle, chapter capacity, and the type of race or ballot measure involved.