No. of Recommendations: 4
AI overview
While the definition can vary, in late 2021, the Pew Research Center classified about 12% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents as "Progressive Left," characterized by very liberal views and high political engagement. This group was a distinct segment within the broader "left," which includes other categories like "Establishment Liberals" and "Democratic Mainstays".
Key Characteristics of the "Progressive Left" (Late 2021)
Ideological Stance:
They hold extremely liberal positions on issues like government scope, foreign policy, immigration, and race.
Self-Identification:
A large majority (79%) identified their views as liberal, with 42% describing themselves as "very liberal".
Political Engagement:
This group is highly politically active, with high voter turnout rates and frequent discussions about politics.
Demographics:
They are a relatively young and highly educated group, with a majority being white.
Party Affiliation:
They are part of the Democratic coalition, though some may identify as independents who lean Democratic.
Context: A Broader "Left"
The "Progressive Left" is not the entirety of the left; it's a specific segment within it. Other groups within the Democratic-aligned spectrum, like "Establishment Liberals" or "Democratic Mainstays," are also considered part of the left but have different characteristics and levels of ideological alignment.
Me: I think we make a mistake to talk about progressives without giving some perspective. The floor is open to disagree with the above, but I do think ~12@ of Dems is reasonable. Only about one out of 10 of the left is really progressive. I've never been progressive, I crossed over from being considered conservative because the country moved right. All of Al's points are well noted, but they apply to only 12% of the left and characterized as what we all believe by Dopers, etc.
