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How to identify conservatives disguised as a Democrats [1]
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Date: 2025-03-10
In the ever-shifting landscape of American politics, the Democratic Party has long been a big tent, housing progressives, moderates, and, occasionally, figures whose allegiances seem to align more closely with conservative or Trumpian ideals than with the party’s stated values. While some politicians wear their ideologies on their sleeves, others are more circumspect, blending into the Democratic fold while quietly advancing policies—or forging alliances—that undermine progressive goals.
Recent events have reignited concerns about so-called “Democrats”—Democrats who, critics argue, are secretly conservative allies. From Senator John Fetterman’s perceived shifts on key issues and support for key Trumpian policies to Gavin Newsom’s eyebrow-raising decision to host far-right commentator Charlie Kirk on his podcast, the question arises: How can voters tell if a Democrat is truly progressive or a wolf in sheep’s clothing?
Here are some key indicators, drawn from recent examples and historical patterns, to help identify politicians who may be secretly aligned with conservative interests.
1. Cozying Up to Conservative Figures
One of the most glaring red flags is a Democrat’s willingness to engage with or platform far-right voices. California Governor Gavin Newsom, once seen as a progressive standard-bearer, recently sparked outrage by hosting Charlie Kirk, a prominent white supremacist provocateur and founder of pro-Trump organization Turning Point USA, on his podcast. Kirk has been a vocal opponent of LGBTQ+ rights, climate action, and racial justice initiatives—causes Newsom has publicly championed. Kirk has even gone as far as condemning Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as “awful” while asserting the need to reverse the Civil Rights Act.
Critics argue that by giving Kirk a platform, Newsom legitimized his views and undermined the Democratic Party’s commitment to marginalized communities. As political analysts have noted, “when Democrats platform extremists, they normalize extremism.”
2. Shifting Stances on Key Progressive Issues
Another telltale sign is a sudden or gradual shift away from progressive policies. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA), who rose to prominence as a progressive outsider, has faced criticism for his evolving positions on issues like fossil fuel extraction and immigration. While Fetterman has defended his record, progressives emphasize that his rhetoric no longer matches his actions.
Politicians who claim to be progressive but consistently side with corporate interests or conservative policies are not allies. They’re opportunists.
3. Voting with Republicans on Crucial Legislation
A politician’s voting record is often the most revealing indicator of their true allegiances. Senator Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), who left the Democratic Party in 2022, became infamous for her opposition to eliminating the filibuster and her willingness to block key Democratic priorities, such as voting rights legislation and tax reforms targeting the wealthy.
Sinema’s actions drew comparisons to former Representative Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), who frequently broke with her party on foreign policy and social issues, earning praise from conservative media outlets. Gabbard’s eventual departure from the Democratic Party and her appearances on Fox News only confirmed suspicions that her politics were far removed from the party’s base. Now: Tulsi Gabbard has become the Director of National Intelligence under the new Trump administration— proving there is a direct pipeline here from allegedly progressive Democrat to reactionary centrist to far-right political leader.
4. Embracing Corporate Donors and Lobbyists
Follow the money. Politicians who rely heavily on corporate donations or maintain close ties to lobbyists are often more beholden to corporate interests than to their constituents. Sinema, for example, was one of the top recipients of pharmaceutical industry donations during her time in Congress, coinciding with her opposition to Medicare drug price negotiations.
The influence of corporate money in politics is a bipartisan problem, but it’s particularly damaging when it comes from within the Democratic Party, which claims to represent working people.
5. Rhetoric That Undermines Progressive Movements
Finally, pay attention to how politicians talk about progressive movements. Figures like Gabbard and Sinema have been criticized for using conservative talking points to dismiss or undermine efforts like Medicare for All, the Green New Deal, and Black Lives Matter.
“Language matters,” said Naomi Klein, author of The Shock Doctrine. When Democrats echo Republican critiques of progressive policies, they’re not just distancing themselves from the left—they’re actively aiding the right.
In an era of heightened political polarization, the Democratic Party’s ability to present a united front is more important than ever. But unity cannot come at the expense of principle. Voters must remain vigilant, scrutinizing not just what politicians say, but what they do—and who they align themselves with.
As the political stakes in the United States heat up, the danger is clear. The Democratic Party cannot afford to harbor secret conservative allies if it hopes to deliver on its promises to working families, marginalized communities, and future generations. The question is not just how to spot a Democrat in name only, but what to do about it.
Are you interested in learning more about this topic? You can check out our investigation into the so-called “centrist” think tank pushing Democrats towards Trumpism or you can read our article on Gavin Newsom’s betrayal of the LGBTQ+ community. Beyond the Democratic Party— here’s our recent coverage on Trump’s attack on the Department of Education and his long overlooked ties to child sex crimes.
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