Types of Democrats
Political Studies: Edexcel A Level, topic 16.6.1
Democratic Ideology
Democrat ideology is mainly liberal and aims to improve the well-being of the disadvantaged in society.
Types of Democrats
- There are different types of Democrats within the party, including moderate Democrats, conservative Democrats and liberals.
- The Democratic Party has become more liberal on economic and social issues, with liberal democrats, and centrists, more prominent within the party than conservatives.
Liberal Democrats
- Liberal Democrats are progressive on social issues, including ending capital punishment, protecting the environment and being pro same sex marriage and abortion.
- Liberal Democrats believe in government spending to provide welfare for all in society.
- Liberal Democrats are key supporters of the same-sex marriage law which was legalised in 2015 and more affordable healthcare.
Moderate Democrats
- Moderate Democrats are a central ideological group within the Democratic Party with liberal views on economic and social issues.
- Moderate Democrats are less liberal than the Liberal Democrats in their economic views, more in favour of business and favour some socially conservative policies.
Conservative Democrats
- Conservative Democrats are more conservative democrats than most of the national party. They may believe in lower government spending and taxes, and are conservative on some social issues
- Conservative Democrats traditionally live in southern states.
Test yourself on Types of Democrats
Which of the following is not a type of Democrats?