The Arizona Working Families Party (WFP) recently announced its endorsements for the 2024 state legislative races, backing several Democratic candidates in key districts. While Bernie Sanders has openly called the WFP “the closest thing” to socialism, a statement that should already raise concerns, what’s even more alarming is a disturbing flier circulating on social media. This flier unites the WFP with the Communist Party USA (CPUSA), a radical organization with a dark history. The imagery and messaging on the flier suggest a deeper alignment, raising serious questions about these endorsed candidates’ political direction and affiliations.

The flier prominently features the names and pictures of endorsed Democrat candidates alongside CPUSA verbiage, the WFP endorsement logo, and the preamble of the CPUSA. Notably, it also showcases Vladimir Lenin, a central figure in the communist movement, positioned prominently. Lenin, known for his brutal leadership during the Russian Revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union, was responsible for widespread violence, political repression, and the deaths of millions. His regime laid the foundation for decades of totalitarian rule, making his appearance on the flier particularly concerning given his notorious legacy.

Among the endorsed candidates are Lorena Austin (District 9) and Mariana Sandoval (District 23), both from competitive districts. Other notable endorsements include Oscar De Los Santos and Junelle Cavero (both in District 11), Stephanie Stahl-Hamilton (District 21), and Quantá Crews and Cesar Aguilar (both in District 26).

For the Arizona State Senate, the WFP has endorsed Lauren Kuby (District 8), Brian Fernandez (District 23), and Analise Ortiz (District 24). The Working Party said that these candidates reflect its commitment to supporting progressive voices that align with its vision of building a multiracial movement for social and economic justice. The endorsements demonstrate the party’s strategy of organizing both inside and “outside the traditional two-party system” to elevate candidates who represent the working class and advocate for fair wages, healthcare access, and workers’ rights.

In Arizona, the Communist Party is not recognized or certified as a legal political entity. According to Arizona law, any party that seeks to overthrow the U.S. or state government through force or violence, such as the CPUSA, is not entitled to legal recognition or the privileges of being a recognized state political body. This restriction aligns with the Communist Control Act of 1954, which at the federal level outlaws the Communist Party as an entity aiming to subvert the government through force. However, mere membership in or support of Communist ideals is not illegal, as the laws target violent or subversive activities rather than political beliefs themselves.

It’s striking that, despite the Arizona Globe reaching out to all lawmakers featured on the flier—some even contacted twice—along with the WFP, the Arizona Democratic Party, and the CPUSA, none have responded to disavow this peculiar endorsement. Additionally, numerous parties have tagged the legislators on social media, yet not a single Democrat has distanced themselves from this unsettling connection to communism. Even more concerning, several legislators proudly flaunt their WFP endorsement as a badge of honor, further raising questions about their affiliations and political leanings.