The Democratic Party and Me

For as long as I can remember, I considered myself a Democrat. It wasn’t just a political label, it was a family tradition, passed down from my parents and grandparents, who believed deeply in the values the party once stood for. Their commitment to economic justice, civil rights, and working-class advocacy shaped how I understood politics and civic responsibility.

However, in recent years, I’ve watched the Democratic Party shift further to the left in ways that have left me feeling disconnected. While I still share many of the core values that once defined the party, I no longer feel that it represents a balanced or inclusive perspective. Political discourse seems increasingly dominated by extremes, and nuance appears to be in short supply.

I believe strongly in the need for balance. Progress should not come at the cost of alienating those with differing views, and political movements shouldn’t demand total agreement to participate. The concept of being “woke” originally signified awareness of injustice, but it has, in some circles, hardened into rigid ideology. I don’t believe awareness has to become absolutism.

Because of this growing divide between my values and the direction of the party, I’ve chosen to become an independent. I will now vote based on principles, policies, and people, not party affiliation. This decision comes from reflection, not resentment. I haven’t given up on civic engagement, I’ve simply chosen a new path to continue it.