Progressive Caucus Supports Rebel Democratic Group
This year, the Progressive Democrats of America is supporting just challengers to the candidates favored by the Democratic Party’s more rightward-leaning leadership:David Segal against three Democratic rivals, Jonathan Tasini against Kirsten Gillibrand. However, the PDA has sent out a letter citing three other candidates as well (Bill Hedrick, David Gill, and Rick Waugh), though these candidates aren’t challenging any Democratic insiders. Five other PDA candidates challenged insider Democrats, but lost their contests.
Taking side along with the Progressive Democrats of America in favor of Segal and Tasini is the Congressional Progressive Caucus. On behalf of the caucus, co-leaders Raul Grijalva and Lynn Woolsey have written a letter to current and former members of the Progressive Democrats of America, declaring their support for the PDA’s mission of challenging Republicans and right wing Democrats alike.
The Progressive Caucus letter praised PDA, reading, “PDA’s encouragement and assistance will be needed as we move forward. Like you, we understand there is no time for rest, and your allegiance will be more valuable now than ever.”
Taking sides in Democrat vs. Democrat contests only goes far for the Progressive Caucus, however. The caucus letter to the PDA promoted Democratic unity, stating, “It is important for Democrats to stand strongly together for the programs we believe in.”
Which are the “programs we believe in”? Democratic members of the House have voted against climate legislation, against health care reform, and for increasing the already bloated Pentagon budget. Rallying points for unity are identified subjectively, according to the agenda of a particular group within the diverse Democratic Party.
