In the aftermath of conservative Democrats winning governors races in New Jersey and Virginia and a socialist winning as a Democrat in New York City, many in the Democratic Party and the media were saying the future of the Democratic Party is as a big tent. Under their reasoning, the Democratic Party would be successful if candidates were respected for running races that fit their communities. In theory, this thought process sounds good. The Democratic Party could have conservative candidates in conservative areas and progressive candidates in others. Once the candidates won, they could work together to find common ground and govern as a party.
Then, eight conservative Democratic senators sided with Republicans to reopen the government getting nothing from Republicans but a promise to someday hold a vote on health care-related tax issues. Once the conservative eight Democrats voted, the fighting among Democrats began and the myth that a big tent party was possible was proven false.
More progressive Democrats, who actually care a bit about people who can’t go to the doctor, were left with nothing to bring to their voters. Voters, who hoped this time would be different, were left once again with the realization that the Democratic Party, because of its conservative members, will never do anything to lead America down a more inclusive, progressive path.
In less than a week we went from the Democratic Party moving forward as a so-called big tent to once again having to except the reality that the Democratic Party will never effectively govern toward the ideals held by many who mistakenly vote Democratic and against their self interest.
Progressives will never have a political future as long as they continue pretending there is a place for them inside the Democratic Party.