It seems as though the Democratic Party’s socialist wing can make inroads only in the bluest of regions around the country, as noted once again by the failure of a Democratic Socialists of America-backed candidate losing in the purplish state of Arizona.

Incumbent Rep. Greg Stanton decisively defeated left-wing DSA-aligned activist Kai Newkirk in Arizona’s Democratic congressional primary, surviving a challenge from the party’s left flank that became increasingly focused on Israel, immigration and Stanton’s relationship with the Democratic

Certified results from the Arizona secretary of state show Stanton winning 35,551 votes, or about 62.3%, compared with 21,544 votes, or 37.7%, for Newkirk in the July 21 Democratic primary for Arizona’s 4th Congressional District.

The outcome secured another Democratic nomination for Stanton, a former Phoenix mayor who was first elected to Congress in 2018.

“This campaign presented voters with a real choice about how Democrats should lead,” Stanton said after the race was called.

“Tonight, they chose proven leadership that fights back, delivers real results, and brings our party together,” he added.

Newkirk, a longtime political organizer who has described himself as a democratic socialist, attempted to challenge Stanton from the left on several issues.

His campaign placed particular emphasis on U.S. policy toward Israel.

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