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Centrist Democrats are expressing strong criticism towards their far-left counterparts in the aftermath of Election Day, contending that an overemphasis on “identity politics” and similar issues has led to significant victories for the Republican Party.
Representative Ritchie Torres from New York stated that President-elect Trump finds his strongest ally in the far-left factions of the Democratic Party. He and other centrist Democrats argue that focusing on racial issues, anti-police sentiments, and gender controversies is alienating a vast number of voters.
“Politically, there is more at stake than there is to gain by catering to a far-left ideology that resonates more with social media platforms like Twitter, Twitch, and TikTok than with everyday Americans,” Torres expressed on X. “The working class does not support the elitist rhetoric being promoted by these extreme views.”
Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville was even more direct during a recent interview with The New York Times, labeling “defund the police” as “the three most foolish words in English.” He added, “We could never shake off its negative implications.”
Torres represents a growing number of Democratic lawmakers who are voicing concerns about their party’s direction. One centrist House Democrat shared with Axios on Monday that “the focus on identity politics is severely damaging our chances.”
Senator Chris Murphy from Connecticut also weighed in over the weekend, suggesting that Democrats are disconnected from what he termed as a crisis of meaning driving MAGA supporters.
“We often fail to listen; instead we dictate what we believe is best for people,” Murphy noted. He pointed out how progressives like Bernie Sanders face backlash when they challenge elite structures holding people back—perhaps because genuine economic populism threatens their affluent base.
However, not all members within the party are inclined toward change. Representative Seth Moulton from Massachusetts faced severe backlash after he publicly criticized biological males competing in women’s sports last week.
“Democrats spend excessive time trying not to offend anyone rather than confronting head-on the real challenges many Americans encounter,” Moulton remarked in an article for The New York Times. “As a father of two daughters, I don’t want them at risk from male athletes or those who were formerly male competing against them—but as a Democrat I feel pressured not to voice this concern.”
This statement triggered calls for Moulton’s resignation and prompted at least one staff member to resign in protest.
Manny Cruz, a state representative from Massachusetts labeled Moulton’s comments as “a betrayal” via X platform post.
“Congressman Moulton once committed himself to protecting LGBTQ rights and showing compassion,” Cruz wrote. “Now he has turned his back on those principles based solely on political convenience while scapegoating transgender youth involved in sports for broader failures within our national party.”
Kyle Davis, another Democrat serving as Salem city Councilor echoed similar sentiments calling for Moulton’s resignation: “I’m not seeking an apology but rather accountability through resignation,” Davis stated online.
Moulton stood firm without offering an apology, reiterating his commitment late last week: “I will continue advocating for all citizens’ rights and safety—these principles can coexist even if opinions differ.” He further emphasized how extreme left voices often attempt to impose rigid standards upon him regarding loyalty within party lines.
“Our loss during 2024 wasn’t due solely because of any trans-related issue; it stemmed partly from dismissing diverse viewpoints held by numerous voters—a practice we must abandon moving forward,” he concluded urging open discussions aimed at redefining strategies following electoral setbacks while uniting against Trump’s agenda whenever it threatens American values.”
This report includes contributions from Fox News’ Jackson Thompson.
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