Ayanna Pressley, a member of the 'Squad,' expresses concern that Democrats may move towards the center following their election loss.

Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass., expressed concern that the Democratic Party may abandon its progressive policies following a defeat in the 2024 election.

"She expressed concern that we would reflexively moderate our policy aspirations in this moment. If we say "Come on home and let's do the work of getting the gavel back and being in power, getting the House, getting the Senate, getting the White House," the real question is, Democrats, do you want power, but to do what? This has been an issue we have struggled to overcome."

The exodus of blue-collar and minority voters from the Democratic Party over the past few years has prompted moderate members of the party to suggest that the party's emphasis on identity politics may have played a role.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Seth Moulton faced criticism after stating in the New York Times that the Democratic Party's position on transgender athletes did not align with the majority of Americans.

"Democrats prioritize avoiding offense over being truthful about the difficulties faced by many Americans, according to Moulton, who stated this to the Times. He has two daughters and is concerned about their safety on a playing field, but as a Democrat, he feels pressured to remain silent on the issue."

In the Times report, Rep. Tom Suozzi, D-N.Y. stated that his party needed to stop "catering to the far left" on the transgender issue.

Pressley contended that voters largely backed progressive policies during the election, pointing to their support for abortion rights and paid leave expansion.

In the 2024 election, seven states voted to loosen restrictions on abortion rights, while three states maintained existing restrictions.

In Missouri, Alaska, and Nebraska, expansions to paid leave were approved, as reported by the 19th News.

Sarah McBride, a transgender Democratic representative-elect, was the subject of a fight on Capitol Hill over whether she should be allowed to use women's restrooms. Pressley also stated that Republicans were the party focused on identity politics during this discussion.

"Pressley stated that Republicans are the ones who are fixated on identity and demonstrate it every day. On the other hand, Sarah McBride was elected by Delawareans because of her outstanding work as a legislator, particularly on issues such as paid leave, and not because of her identity."

Planet Chronicle' Gabriel Hays contributed to this report.