AOC, Sanders Rally Support as 72% of Democrats Push for Progressive Shift

Progressive leaders Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are drawing large crowds across the country, including in traditionally conservative states, as part of their Fighting Oligarchy Tour advocating for a more aggressive stance against President Trump and his administration. Recent polls consistently show that a majority of Democratic voters—up to 72%—support moving the party in a more progressive direction and favor politicians who challenge Trump rather than compromise. The tour’s messaging, which includes calls for government-run healthcare and criticism of billionaire influence in politics, appears to be resonating with many Democratic voters but has drawn criticism from Democratic strategist James Carville, who argues such internal criticism distracts from targeting Republicans. Ocasio-Cortez’s fundraising has surged amid this activism, with some progressives urging her to challenge party leaders in future primaries. The Democratic Party remains divided, with debates over whether to double down on progressive ideals or pivot to more moderate, working-class-focused policies after significant losses in recent elections. Overall, the progressive wing, led by Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez, is gaining momentum and shaping the internal debate about the party’s future direction.