Reply #15: They may identify as "moderates", but they support progressive policies

[IrateCitizen]

It's an important distinction to make. Many Americans have heard the term "liberal" demonized for so long that there is a visceral reaction to NOT be identified with it. Therefore, when asked what their general political affiliation is, many of them will say "moderate".

But this answer presents a fallacy when asked about specific policies. For example, an overwhelming majority of those who call themselves "moderates" support such policies as universal health care, stewardship of the environment, more funding for education (instead of tax cuts!), and so forth. In fact, most of these self-styled "moderates" are really liberals/progressives -- even if they aren't willing to recognize themselves as such.

It's an important distinction to be made before we set about selling out on the majority of stuff that liberals/progressives are all about, because we share a relatively common vision with these "moderates" out there.