Recap of Socialism 2026 Conference

The Socialism 2026 event, hosted by Haymarket Books, brought together a diverse group of Marxists, abolitionists, and far-left activists from September 4 to 7.

This year’s gatherings primarily focused on the concept of abolition—not just in the context of capitalism but extending to police, prisons, borders, and even the traditional family structure, as well as discussions surrounding gender identity. There were also numerous talks on Marxist perspectives, support for Palestine, opposition to ICE, and labor movements.

Glenn Beck found both shock and humor in the proceedings, often referring to the event as a kind of bizarre spectacle. On his show, he reflected on the more outrageous moments from the conference and raised concerns about a potential strike planned for 2028 that he perceives as being behind the scenes.

While many session titles were somewhat expected, some were downright eccentric. Beck mentioned titles like “Health Fascism,” “Body Politics,” “The Anti-State State,” “Feminism Against Cisness,” “Abolishing the Family Through Black Feminist Lens,” and intriguingly, “Tarot Cards for Socialists.” The latter struck Beck as particularly amusing.

“It seems like those without faith are looking for alternative guidance,” he observed with a chuckle.

A standout moment came when Hassan Piker, a prominent advocate for abolitionist socialism, accepted a hat from a member of Stand with Abortion Now, which bore the inscription “Satan’s School of Gay Communism.”

In another clip, Beck highlighted Da’Shaun Harrison, who described himself as a queer/trans Afropessimist and anarcho-communist. Harrison argued against the use of certain weight loss medications, deeming them “fascistic” in a society that he claims is bent on eradicating fat individuals.

While Beck found Harrison’s stance amusingly absurd, he was more frustrated by the fact that Harrison continued to wear a mask. “COVID is old news,” Beck scoffed, noting the numerous attendees still donning masks at the conference.

As for Harrison’s concerns about fat individuals facing genocide, Beck questioned the logic behind such a claim, stating, “Why would anyone want to eliminate fat people? If that were the case, we’d all be in trouble. Just step into any mall and take a look at the crowd.”

Seated beside Harrison on a panel labeled “Health Fascism” was Beatrice Alder Bolton, who writes about disability justice. She articulated thoughts about how the aspiration to be healthier should not be tied to benefiting the existing power structures. “Our goal should not simply be to fit into the mold of productivity set by capitalism,” she stated, urging the audience to reject all forms of disposability.

Beck noted the irony in Bolton’s position; she was advocating against the need for health and fitness while still wearing a mask for her own protection. “If you’re not worried about health, then why the mask?” he quipped.

According to Beck, the root of the issue with these radical abolitionists isn’t that they have erroneous ideas—“we all have bad ideas,” he acknowledged—but that the environment allows no space for dissent and discussion, equating disagreement with betrayal.

Ultimately, he expressed that his greatest concern about the Socialism 2026 conference wasn’t the humorous clips circulating online about fitness or the absurdity of certain arguments. Rather, it’s what’s looming in 2028.

He pointed out that “Mayday 2028” is more than just a rallying cry; it’s part of an organized effort to stage a massive strike that, if successful, could effectively paralyze various industries at once.

“The UAW is coordinating the expiration of key union contracts for May 1, 2028. Other unions are shifting their timelines to sync with that date. The Democratic Socialists of America have committed to mobilizing for a significant mass action,” Beck revealed.

He relayed how one organizer referred to Socialism 2026 as “a structured test,” meant to gauge how many participants would actually participate in a walkout when prompted. “They are patient, they have funding, and this is all meticulously planned over the next two and a half years,” he added.

So, while many focus on the viral clips emerging from the conference, Beck cautioned that it is the advancing calendar—specifically May 2028—that should be the main focus of concern.