The Democratic Party appears to be going through what can only be described as a midlife crisis. Recently, two notable figures, Randi Weingarten and David Hogg, have stepped down from leadership positions, leaving one to wonder if the party’s ship is steering toward or away from complete anarchy. Randi Weingarten, known for keeping kids out of school in 2020, is no moderate by any stretch. Yet, even she seems out of step with the new radical direction the party seems to be pursuing. It seems they can’t quite decide between socialism or the familiar ‘old guard’ way of doing things, and the indecision is tearing them apart.
As someone watching this seemingly endless breaking up of the Democratic Party, it’s almost amusing to see which side will emerge victorious: the ‘new blood’ eager to push socialism or the wise ‘old guard’ clinging to power like it’s a vintage vinyl record. Those advocating for more radical politics may think they have the upper hand, especially in places like New York, where openly socialist candidates are gaining traction. If one of these candidates wins, there might not be enough nonfat soy lattes in the world to sate their newfound thirst for socialism, and the rest of the party might need heavier blankets to hide under.
Meanwhile, as if this internal debacle wasn’t enough, Senator John Fetterman recently faced backlash for supporting a military parade. Imagine that, a political leader appreciating the people who sacrificed for the country! It’s almost as if he has dared to focus on unifying rather than dividing. The mere concept seems to flabbergast some left-leaning folks who apparently don’t see the value of honoring military service members who gave blood, sweat, and tears for freedoms sometimes taken for granted.
This goes to the heart of the bigger issue: the Democratic Party is increasingly disconnected from fundamental American values. They criticize a celebration of military service, yet never miss an opportunity to throw an awards ceremony for anything and everything under the sun. One must wonder what kind of mental gymnastics are required to justify snapping selfies at the latest protest while conveniently sidestepping an event that honors real sacrifice.
While Democrats embroil themselves in internal strife, it is clear they are faced with a choice. They can either continue down this fracture-prone path or steer back towards a semblance of traditional values. The party of a thousand factions is clearly struggling to choose a united direction. Whatever the outcome, it’s bound to be an eye-catching political soap opera for Republicans and a consequence-filled future for Democrats.
