By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Adelita Grijalva secured the Democratic primary for Arizona’s 7th congressional district, setting her up for a likely victory in September. Despite Grijalva’s progressive platform and endorsements from prominent figures like Bernie Sanders, coverage in The New York Times attempted to link her win to the perceived shortcomings of Zohran Mamdani. The article criticizes the media’s narrative, suggesting it misrepresents the momentum of progressive politics and their appeal beyond specific demographics. The victories of both Grijalva and Mamdani highlight the increasing dissatisfaction with the Democratic Party’s centrist wing and its stance on key issues, indicating a shift towards progressive policies.
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Don’t Listen to the Corporate Media; Progressive Candidates Are on a Roll
The narrative painted by corporate media often obscures a burgeoning movement, one where progressive candidates are gaining significant traction, particularly at the local level. The assertion that these candidates are “on a roll” may seem overstated if you only consume information from a handful of media conglomerates, but a closer look reveals a different reality. The fact that thousands of progressive candidates have filed for candidacy since Zohran Mamdani’s success in New York signals a growing momentum.
This rise is happening against a backdrop where a small number of corporations control most of the mainstream media outlets. Considering that the working-class, which progressive candidates champion, are at odds with these same outlets, it is not a surprise to see a biased portrayal. The establishment media often portrays the same message, that Democrats are still stuck in the political dynamics of decades past.
One common criticism focuses on the idea that progressive wins are only occurring in “blue bubble-cities,” similar to candidates in cowboy hats winning in Texas. While these wins may be geographically limited, they are still essential building blocks. They offer examples of progressive policies in action. These are the people that are making waves. These progressive-leaning communities are the ones making a difference.
There is clear frustration with the corporate media’s portrayal, with many citing an obvious bias against progressive candidates and a willingness to crucify them while offering a pass to establishment figures. This makes the use of social media platforms by these candidates even more vital. This helps them gain traction and to even the playing field, in terms of getting their messages out to the public.
Many people feel that the corporate media often seems to be manufacturing consent and making a bad job of it. The idea that the establishment hates progressives is a narrative propagated by corporate media, that may not entirely reflect the public’s view.
The media’s role in this narrative is significant, they sell a product (readers and audiences) to businesses (advertisers). National media targets elite groups who help in decision-making in the private and public spheres. While realistic portrayal is presented, it must reflect the interests and concerns of sellers, buyers, and institutions dominated by these groups.