Quote:[...]While Tyner suggested during his speech that the party has differences with Ocasio-Cortez and others of the new wave of democratic socialists, that surge of progressive energy appeared to have emboldened the party and attracted new interest.

People’s World, the news outlet affiliated with CPUSA, has seen increased readership this year, editor-in-chief John Wojcik and managing editor CJ Atkins told the convention. Several guests were not members of the party, but at the convention to learn more about it.

Timothy Faye, who is not a communist but is interested in leftist causes, came to Chicago from Rhode Island. While many older Americans may have a negative view of communism, he said, younger people like him may be more open to its message.

“There’s a leftward shift among young people,” Faye told the Guardian. “It’s a reflection of the economic environment people are in.”

The party seems to see an opportunity to build.

“Together, we will win,” Lozano said, concluding his speech. “Our victory is inevitable. Viva the Communist party USA!”