A strong argument could be made for FDR’s government at least making steps toward leftist goals, and Jimmy Carter was a lot more progressive than a typical liberal.
He pardoned the conscientious objectors and draft dodgers, gave the Panama Canal back to Panama, founded the Super Fund to prosecute polluters and clean up spills, lifted the military ban on LGBTQ people serving, etc. Sure, he made some mistakes, particularly as it applies to deregulating numerous industries, but in general, he was reasonably close to progressive in numerous ways.
I think you’re mistaking “conservatives and centrists” for “American government”
Who is controlling the American government right now?
the leopard seals.
When has the American government consisted of anyone but conservatives or centrists?
A strong argument could be made for FDR’s government at least making steps toward leftist goals, and Jimmy Carter was a lot more progressive than a typical liberal.
Carter was more progressive than a typical liberal? He’s the one who abandoned unions and the working class in favor of neoliberalism.
He pardoned the conscientious objectors and draft dodgers, gave the Panama Canal back to Panama, founded the Super Fund to prosecute polluters and clean up spills, lifted the military ban on LGBTQ people serving, etc. Sure, he made some mistakes, particularly as it applies to deregulating numerous industries, but in general, he was reasonably close to progressive in numerous ways.