WASHINGTON (AP) — There’s been a lot of talk this midterm election season about socialism, but only a handful of candidates running for Congress actually align with the far-left wing of the party or consider themselves part of the Democratic Socialists of America.

Most of these candidates come from a few Democratic strongholds, and several toppled seasoned incumbents in hard-fought primary campaigns. They are expected to win their elections on Nov. 3, and would join two democratic socialists already in the House.

The progressive newcomers bring a new energy to the Democratic Party and also potential challenges for leadership, regardless of whether Democrats or Republicans hold the House majority, for the final two years of President Donald Trump’s term.

While Republicans have raised alarm bells over socialism, the warning may not pack the punch it once did, particularly among Democrats. These candidates wouldn’t be the first democratic socialists on the national scene.…