Unlike the Republican Party, the Democratic Party is a left-leaning party that advocates for more government intervention in social issues, as well as greater freedoms for individuals on social and political matters. Traditionally, the Democratic Party has been considered liberal, and many have viewed it as a party that is too radical on social issues.

However, the Democrats’ liberal streak has grown more consistently over the past two decades. One in three Democrats without a college degree identified as liberal in 2021, up from just over 30 percent in 1999.

Despite the fact that the Democrats and Republicans each advocate for a stronger government, they are also more divided on policies. For example, the Democratic Party supports a more active government role in economic affairs, while the Republicans are more inclined to see big government as a waste of resources. The Democratic Party is also more likely to support abortion rights and embryonic stem cell research, while the Republicans are less enthusiastic.

The Democrat’s liberal streak is particularly strong on social issues. For example, the Democrats support a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who have not committed a crime, as well as a moratorium on deportation of certain workers. In addition, the Democratic Party is more likely to endorse gay rights and equal rights for gay couples.

The Democrats also support social welfare programs and regulations that protect workers and consumers. These policies make sense, given the party’s large college-educated base.