Is there a generational divide in the meaning and effect of the the word "Socialist?"
On the one hand, there are entire generations of people for whom "Socialist" has an extremely negative connotation. I suspect that modifying it with "but he's a Democratic Socialist" won't help. I also really don't think many people are going to hang around for the "but you lie Social Security, so you're a Socialist, too" argument.
On the other hand, there are quite a few well-intentioned and honest people here who feel it has lost its sting and won't make any difference at all.
So I'm curious. Do you think the label "Socialist" will have a significant negative effect on Sanders if he is the Democratic nominee, and how old are you?
Thanks.