I am, by any definition, a progressive with views that are to the left of center of many Dems. But I also realize that to exercise power you have to have power & that means embracing a big tent party that has traction w/the center. It does not mean compromise w/the hard right.
Dems of left and center must work together--which is precisely why the right likes to pit us against one another. We must build a record of achievement that wins us more power that enables us to do more to improve the lives of most people.
Further, for all the differences many cite between progressives and centrists, on the big issues--health care for call, compassionate COVID relief, prioritizing combatting the climate crisis, common sense gun control, investing in education and R&D--we agree.
Further, the vast majority of Americans agree. They want fair tax laws too. They want an end to grotesque income and wealth inequality in America. They want an end to corruption in Washington. Dems are not just the majority party in the US.
If Dems remain united they represent a party whose share of the electorate is likely to grow and the party most likely to attract independents. I'm not advocating a corporatist Democratic agenda. Quite the contrary.
I'm saying the best chance to achieve the most important progressive goals is build the strongest, biggest base of support for those goals...because that is how democracy works.
So, if you are a Dem and you feel passionately about undoing the damage not just of the past four years but of the past forty years, then reach out to other Dems. Argue with them. Stand up for your principles. But resist the impulse to attack and demean other Dems.
They are your only ticket to achieving our shared goal of a better, more equitable, more opportunity-rich, more secure, healthier future for all Americans.
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