What does it mean to be a progressive in politics? It quickly became voguish for Democratic politicians, especially in New York City, to define themselves as progressive. But what does this term actually mean, and how does it manifest in different contexts?
In its broadest definition, a progressive is someone who believes in moderate political change and social improvement. This can manifest in a variety of ways, from advocating for a higher minimum wage and better workplace conditions to pushing for greater access to healthcare and education. Progressivism can also refer to a more grassroots approach to politics, with a focus on local community action and advocacy.
On the other hand, the term “progressive” has also taken on more specific meanings within the Democratic party. For example, the primary race between Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton in 2016 became a contest to be the more “progressive” candidate. Sanders was seen as the more progressive of the two, pushing for greater economic equality and a more liberal stance on issues such as immigration and climate change. Clinton, on the other hand, was seen as more of a centrist, advocating for incremental change and a more moderate approach.
The progressive platform has also become closely associated with gun laws. Progressives tend to advocate for stricter gun control laws, with a focus on universal background checks and bans on certain types of weapons. This is in stark contrast to the more conservative view, which tends to favor more lenient gun laws and an emphasis on the Second Amendment.
When it comes to national security, progressives often take a different view than conservatives. Progressives tend to favor a more cooperative approach to international relations, emphasizing diplomacy and non-military solutions. They are also more likely to advocate for reduced military spending and a greater focus on international aid and development.
At the international level, progressives also tend to have a different view of foreign policy. They often advocate for a more open and cooperative approach, emphasizing dialogue and cooperation with other nations. They are also more likely to oppose unilateral interventions and military interventions in general.
The term “progressive” is also often used in relation to movements and organizations. For example, the Black Lives Matter movement is often associated with progressive politics, as it seeks to challenge the systemic racism that exists in the US. Similarly, the Women’s March is seen as a progressive movement, as it seeks to challenge traditional gender roles and advocate for greater gender equality.
Ultimately, the term “progressive” is an ever-evolving concept. It can be used to refer to a variety of different political stances, and it is often used to describe movements and organizations. The term is also closely associated with the Democratic party, as they often take a more progressive stance on issues such as gun laws and national security. Ultimately, the term “progressive” is a broad and shifting concept, and its meaning may vary depending on the context.
