Shifting The Paradigm: Texas Democrats Move Left

The Revival of Progressive Ideals in the Lone Star State: How the Texas progressive movement is leading the way to a better future.

In the early 20th century, Texas progressives fought for municipal reforms, railroad regulation, women’s suffrage, and public health and education improvements. The legacies of these reforms laid the groundwork for a more democratic society.

Texas again finds itself at the crossroads of change, with progressive movements gaining momentum across the state. The conditions fostering this new wave of progressivism are rooted in the same issues that defined the early Progressive Era: economic inequality, social injustice, and a political system needing reform. The rapid population growth, increasing urbanization, and demographic shifts have created a dynamic environment ready for progressive action.

With economic disparities widening, many Texans face challenges related to healthcare, education, and affordable housing. The state’s political landscape, long dominated by conservative ideologies, is witnessing a resurgence of progressive voices advocating for policies that address these serious issues.

I witnessed some of this growth in 2022 in Dallas.

At the 2022 Texas Democratic Convention in Dallas, I attended several caucus meetings. The fullest, by far, was the Texas Progressive Caucus. Not only was it standing room only, but the crowd also went out the door. The speakers were some of the best: Jasmine Crockett, Greg Casar, and Michelle Vallejo. I was blown away by how many in the Texas Democratic Party are aligned as progressives. (Although I didn’t attend the convention this year, I hear it was also standing-room only.)

Then, of course, there was the very scientific poll I made on Twitter last year.

Progressive Lauren Simmons’ primary election victory over centrist Democrat Shawn Theirry is more proof that progressives are leading the charge among Democrats in Texas.

Perhaps it’s the years of lack of access to healthcare, lack of fair wages, and removal of civil and human rights that have sparked this ideological shift in Democrats in Texas. Texans are fed up. Millions of people need healthcare right now. Millions need fair wages right now. (And too many other things to name.)

The Texas Progressive Caucus held its Convention Report and Listening Session meeting today.

At the peak of the call on a Saturday afternoon, they had about 200 members. Many of these members were county chairs, activists, grassroots organizers, and several SDEC (State Democratic Executive Caucus) members, showing how the Progressive Caucus has widespread support at different levels across the state.

On June 3rd, I recommend all of the Progressive Caucus’ SDEC committee endorsements.

The SDEC is the governing body of the Texas Democratic Party. It is comprised of elected representatives from each congressional district, along with additional members and officers. The SDEC plays a crucial role in setting party policies, guiding political strategies, and organizing party activities across Texas.

Today was the report of how successful their endorsement was: (drumroll)

• 80% of candidates endorsed by the Texas Progressive Caucus won.

We may see the most progressive SDEC in Texas Democratic Party history over the next two years. 🤞🏻 Furthermore:

• 62% of the SDEC Members are new (38% are incumbents).

• 34% are under the age of 41.

• 50% are Texas Progressive Caucus members or allies (paid or volunteer).

• 60% of the SDEC was supported by the Texas Progressive Caucus (endorsed and recommended).

These numbers indicate a significant shift within the Texas Democratic Party towards a more progressive stance. The overwhelming success of candidates endorsed by the Texas Progressive Caucus shows the growing influence and support for progressive policies and ideals among Texas Democrats.

This was also evident in the Texas Democratic Party’s new:

• Platform

• Resolutions

• Rules

The platform that the Party passed was the most Progressive Platform in history. According to the Progressive Caucus, it was:

• Pro-pride

• Pro-women’s rights

• Pro-living wages

• Pro-workers

• Pro-books

• Pro-public education

• Pro-monopoly busting

• Pro-environment

• Pro-canabis

• Pro-human rights

• Pro-peace

• Pro-union

• And as a result: Progressively Democratic.

The Texas Democratic Party passed the most progressive Resolutions in TDP history. Including:

• Support and shall advocate for legislation to implement a single-payer national and/or state health program.

• Reaffirm unwavering support for reproductive and reproductive justice for individuals, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, or immigration status.

• Oppose any legislative or policy efforts that seek to undermine or restrict access to reproductive healthcare services, including abortion, contraceptives, prenatal care, and maternal health services. Support the repeal of harmful and medically unnecessary restrictions on abortions, such as mandatory waiting periods, counseling requirements, gestational bans, and targeted regulations on abortion providers (TRAP laws).

• Called for an immediate ceasefire, recognizing Palestinian statehood, and conditioning US aid to Israel. Human rights accountability in Israel/Palestine. Rebuild Gaza.

• The TDP was the first Party in America to call for a ceasefire.

• Repeal all anti-BDS (Boycott, Divest, Sanction) laws.

The Texas Democratic Party passed the most progressive Rules in TDP history:

• Added the Indigenous Caucus to the SDEC

• Passed gender-inclusive language for committee chairs for SDEC.

• Strengthened internal audit rules.

• Strengthened accountability rules.

• Turned the state chair into a full-time, paid position starting in 2026.

These substantial achievements within the Texas Democratic Party signify a seismic shift towards progressive policies and ideologies. Adopting the Party’s most progressive platform, resolutions, and rules shows a bold commitment to addressing critical social issues that resonate with a broad base of Texans.

This will have further implications at the Democratic National Convention.

This year’s DNC will be August 19 - 22 in Chicago, where 77% of the DNC delegates from Texas were supported by the Texas Progressive Caucus (endorsed and recommended).

Hopefully, the progressive DNC delegates will give those establishment guys in California and New York a run for the money and pass some things up there that will push the national Party further left.

This transformation within the Texas Democratic Party is not just a shift in policy but a reflection of the ever-evolving values and priorities. As the state grapples with healthcare issues, economic inequality, and social justice, the progressive movement offers a vision of a more equitable and just future.

The successes of the Texas Progressive Caucus illustrate that change is possible and already underway, driven by a committed and passionate coalition of activists, leaders, and community members.

To the naysayers:

Last year, a friend (maybe a frienemy) emailed me to say that “progressives wouldn’t be happy until we’re all wearing hemp dresses and eating flowers.” While I’m more of a pants person, it’s important to remind everyone that progressive policies gave us:

• Social Security Act (1935)

• Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) (1938)

• Civil Rights Act (1964)

• Medicare and Medicaid (1965)

• Voting Rights Act (1965)

In American history, progressive politicians have enacted various major social reforms. And it is progressive politicians who continue to advocate for:

• Universal healthcare.

• Environmental protection.

• Criminal justice reform.

• Economic equality.

• Voting rights.

The journey ahead may be challenging, but the momentum gained by the Texas Progressive Caucus shows that a more inclusive and just society is just within our reach. The future belongs to those who are willing to fight for it.

Ultimately, it’s not just about winning elections or passing resolutions; it’s about creating a Texas that truly represents its people—a Texas where everyone can thrive. The progressive vision for Texas is bold and ambitious but also necessary. We can make it a reality. Vote early, vote often, just vote.

• 136 days left until the November 5 election!

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