Before Trump landed in the White House, there was resistance on the left to embrace the concept that the struggle for socialism goes through phases and stages, each with its own particular balance of power, particular class and democratic tasks, and particular dynamics. That seems to be changing under the harsh impact of Trump’s right wing, white nationalist authoritarian rule.

Hate crimes don’t happen without organizing agents. These agents don’t necessarily pull the trigger, but what they do is set the stage and create the atmosphere — and even in some instances give a green light — for such acts. Here a whole network of hate crime enablers and agents that are inseparable from the rise of right wing extremism over the past four decades exist and do their dirty work with great diligence. And with Trump, they have a soul mate who gives their (and his) message of division and hate a unique platform and reach.

Listening to Elizabeth Warren and others, it is easy to get the impression that what distinguishes capitalism from socialism is the presence of markets with capitalism favoring them and socialism having no place for them. But that’s not so. Socialism isn’t allergic to markets.

Bravo to Nancy Pelosi for taking impeachment off the table for now. She is a strategic thinker who understands the importance of timing, mass moods, and what it will take to defeat Trump. She’s no small circle thinker nor someone who throws Trump and gang softballs to hit out of the ballpark. Her aim is to win the war, and not just a battle here and there. The new freshman class wouldn’t do themselves any political harm if they observed how she carries herself in what is a very turbulent time.

We should not assist Trump in his effort to turn next year’s election into a referendum on socialism. To do so is a fool’s errand. Thumping Trump and robust reforms — health care, climate, voting rights, jobs and higher wages, immigration, gun violence, and much more — should frame the agenda and constitute the main talking points now and next year. That doesn’t mean pushing the mute button on socialism, but it does mean that it shouldn’t command center stage.