Shifts in Democratic Party Identification

CNN’s senior data reporter Harry Enten noted on Thursday that there’s been a significant rise in the support for far-left views among those identifying as Democrats, a trend that’s been developing since the 1990s.

During a segment on CNN News Central, Enten revealed that the percentage of Democrats who consider themselves as “far left” has seen a remarkable increase, rising from just 5% in 1999 to an expected 21% by 2026. In contrast, back in 1999, 26% of Democrats identified as “conservatives,” but currently, that figure has plummeted to only 8%.

“At that time, 26% of Democrats described themselves as Democratic,” Enten stated. “And only 5% identified as very liberal. It was a minor fraction, yet fast forward, and we see the far left gaining substantial power. I mean, now, one-fifth of Democrats, or 21%, claim to be very liberal,” he added, expressing concern over the dwindling number of conservative Democrats.

Interestingly, combining the 21% who identify as very liberal with those who consider themselves somewhat liberal shows that around three out of five Democrats see themselves in the liberal camp. This marks a significant shift from what was once a smaller part of the party, now growing in influence.

In terms of demographics, 33% of all Democrats and a notable 42% of those under 35 align themselves with democratic socialism. Enten emphasized that nearly half of the Democratic Party is comprised of this younger cohort, with many identifying as democratic socialists.

He noted, “It’s astonishing that about 42% of voters under 35 describe themselves this way.” This change comes amid recent elections that have seen far-left Democratic candidates, like New York Mayor Zoran Mamdani, winning key positions with platforms focusing on substantial reforms in rent control and immigration policies, among others.

Enten also pointed out a crucial perspective: 58% of U.S. voters now believe that Democrats are becoming too liberal, an increase from 48% in 2013. This sentiment reflects a broader concern regarding the party’s direction, especially with figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders prominently shaping its agenda around initiatives like Medicare for All and the Green New Deal.

While former Vice President Kamala Harris has shown support for many of these initiatives, she has recently shifted her stance to present a more moderate image ahead of the 2024 presidential campaign.