Progressivism
Progressivism on the Wrong Track: Fixating on the Wrong Problems
Progressivism once stood for the bold pursuit of economic justice, workers’ rights, and fair access to opportunities. It was a movement driven by the belief that societal progress is only possible when the most vulnerable among us are uplifted. Yet, somewhere along the line, progressivism drifted off course. The focus shifted from systemic economic reform—the bread and butter of movements like those led by Bernie Sanders—to identity and ideology-driven agendas that often leave working-class issues in the dust.
This isn’t to say that matters of race, gender, and identity aren’t important. They absolutely are. But the way progressivism has framed these issues has become more divisive than unifying, turning the movement into a fractured camp rather than a united front against economic injustice. Progressivism has lost the plot, and it's time to get back on track.
The Root of the Problem: Fixating on Identity Over Economics
At its core, progressivism is supposed to challenge power structures that keep the average person down—those structures are often economic. Yet, increasingly, progressive rhetoric leans heavily on identity politics, which, while important for highlighting systemic inequities, often overshadows the material concerns that impact everyone regardless of background.
Identity politics has become a convenient battleground for virtue signaling. It often reduces people to their demographic categories rather than acknowledging their shared struggles under the same economic system. This alienates potential allies who would otherwise be on board with the progressive cause if the focus was on issues that genuinely impact their daily lives—such as housing, healthcare, and fair wages.
Progressive movements have championed causes like defunding the police, gender-neutral bathrooms, and social justice initiatives that cater to niche groups. But what about addressing rising rents, predatory lending, wage stagnation, or the fact that many Americans live paycheck to paycheck? These are the kitchen table issues that resonate with most voters, and they’ve been increasingly sidelined.
Bernie Sanders Was Right: Address the Economy First
Bernie Sanders captured the hearts of millions by focusing on the economy—fighting for universal healthcare, tuition-free college, and raising the minimum wage. He tapped into a widespread discontent, highlighting how the wealthiest few hoard resources while working people struggle to make ends meet. His message was clear: fixing the economy would alleviate many of the struggles that marginalized groups face.
Instead of doubling down on this approach, many progressives turned to policies that felt more symbolic than substantial. By fixating on ideological purity tests, they've forgotten the core message: It’s the economy, stupid.
If you make healthcare, education, housing, and employment accessible to all, you address a significant portion of systemic inequities. But when identity-based politics become the focal point, you risk alienating people who don’t see themselves as part of that conversation.
Democrats: An Uneasy Alliance with Progressives
Progressives often pin their hopes on the Democratic Party as a vehicle for change. But the truth is, the Democratic Party has always been a mixed bag—a party of corporate interests and social progressiveness. It’s a coalition held together by duct tape, with progressives often finding themselves sidelined or outright dismissed.
The hope that mainstream Democrats will suddenly adopt Bernie-style policies is wishful thinking. The party leans toward incrementalism and "vote blue no matter who" mentality rather than a radical restructuring of economic systems. Progressives are stuck with a choice: compromise and risk diluting their message or push for purity and risk losing influence altogether.
And then there’s the issue of political messaging—something Democrats often struggle with. Progressive policies are popular when framed correctly—universal healthcare, fair wages, and affordable education have broad support. Yet, the party fails to present them in a digestible, convincing way. Instead, they spend more time lecturing voters on their failings than offering real solutions.
The Wrong Route: The Pitfalls of Moralizing and Virtue Signaling
There’s a fundamental flaw in modern progressivism: the tendency to moralize rather than persuade. By framing complex societal issues in absolutes—good versus evil, woke versus bigot—progressives push away potential allies. This approach alienates working-class Americans who feel dismissed or even attacked for not subscribing to every progressive ideal.
Progressivism has devolved into a purity contest—where people are judged on their level of wokeness rather than the merits of their ideas. The obsession with calling out microaggressions and problematic behavior has overshadowed the fight for economic reform. Preaching to the choir doesn’t create change—it just creates echo chambers.
A Course Correction for Progressivism
If progressivism wants to be more than just a loud but ineffective movement, it needs to refocus on economic issues and tangible, universal benefits. The movement should be about lifting everyone up, not tearing others down for failing ideological litmus tests. A strong social safety net benefits all, and economic stability can alleviate many of the concerns marginalized groups face.
Return to the principles of Bernie Sanders’ platform—tax the rich, regulate corporations, ensure healthcare and education are rights, and protect workers’ rights. These are issues that unite rather than divide.
Progressivism in Limbo: A Tale of MoNoRi-Chan
Take MoNoRi-Chan’s story, for instance. He isn’t some outlier billionaire who dropped out of school and struck gold. He’s a tale of immigration, financial struggle, and self-sufficiency. When MoNoRi-Chan left college due to financial and personal reasons, he didn’t have the luxury of relying on privilege. Instead, he adapted, taught himself skills, and carved out a life.
Progressivism should support people like him—those stuck in limbo, hustling to survive. Focus on economic mobility, provide education and healthcare, and create pathways for financial independence. These are real, immediate concerns that resonate across all identities.
Final Thoughts: Progressivism Must Return to Its Roots
The future of progressivism lies in returning to its roots—tackling the economic injustices that affect everyone. It’s time to stop moralizing and start delivering real change. Fix the economy first, and watch how many social issues become easier to address. Bernie Sanders had it right all along: If you don’t address the economy, you’re not addressing the problem.
And for those who cling to the idea that identity and ideology are the crux of progressivism, here’s a wake-up call: Your purity tests are losing allies faster than they’re winning converts. It’s time to stop preaching and start producing results—before progressivism becomes just another echo in the political wilderness.
