Van Jones calls Democratic Party far-left agenda regressive

Prominent CNN commentator and longtime progressive voice Van Jones issued a sharp public rebuke of the Democratic Party's far-left wing over the weekend, warning that its embrace of what he called "regressive" ideas is damaging the party's future. Jones, a former Obama administration adviser, made his critique in a social media post on July 18, 2026, referencing a longer column.

Jones argued that positions championed by some activists, particularly within the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), have strayed far from traditional progressive goals. He specifically cited support for Hamas, calls to abolish police and prisons, advocacy for open borders, and the celebration of violence against Israeli civilians as ideas he finds antithetical to progressivism. "These ideas are regressive," Jones wrote.

He contrasted those stances with the policy objectives he has long supported, including criminal justice reform, a Green New Deal, Medicare for All, and expanded access to education. Jones expressed frustration at being told that to be considered progressive, he must endorse what he termed "crazy ideas."

The commentator's criticism comes amid a series of primary election victories...