Democrats wrestle with race, populism and ideology in clashes with lawmakers of color

The Democratic Party is grappling with divisions over race, populism, and ideology, highlighted by the recent primary victory of democratic socialist Claire Valdez over an establishment-backed candidate in New York. Valdez's supporters are now pressuring House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries to align more closely with their progressive agenda. This internal conflict underscores the broader struggle within the party to balance traditional party leadership with the rising influence of progressive lawmakers of color, reflecting a significant shift in the party's ideological landscape.