What Are MAGA and Progressive?

There are some clear trends in how people use and perceive the concepts of “MAGA” versus “Progressive.” In general, MAGA is associated with pro-Trump Republicans. The term progressive is generally associated with liberal or left-leaning politics. However, there are some varying definitions and perceptions for each word, depending on a group or person’s viewpoint.

How MAGA is Used

• MAGA is often linked with a conservative political stance.
• Discussions frequently referring to traditional values, resistance to “wokeness” or progressive ideologies, and an emphasis on patriotism.
• Supporters view MAGA as a symbol of defiance against political correctness.
• MAGA is often used to express support for stricter border control and election integrity.
• The term is often used pejoratively by those who disagree with these views, associating MAGA with regression, intolerance, divisiveness, and a lack of progress.
• However, supporters of MAGA tend to view it positively, associating it with a return to perceived traditional American values and norms.

How Progressive is Used

• The term “progressive” is often associated with left-wing politics, social justice issues, inclusivity, and change.
• Progressive is frequently used to criticize the Biden administration's handling of border control and economic issues.
• Critics of progressives often use the term “woke,” implying that progressives are overly sensitive and focused on political correctness
• Supporters of progressivism view it as a necessary drive towards social and economic justice and equality.
• MIG data shows the term “progressive” is often used online negatively toward those with left-leaning politics. Liberals themselves seem to use it less often in these discussions.
• A possible conclusion could be that “progressive” is losing effectiveness as a branding term.

MAGA Conservatives

According to MIG data, the perception of MAGA among conservatives includes:

• A strong stance on the US border including support for stricter security and physical barriers.
• Prioritizing America’s issues and struggles at home as opposed to over-funding foreign aid.
• There are internal debates within MAGA about how the party should be lead and whether Republicans can find unity.
• Donald Trump remains the figurehead of the MAGA movement and feelings of negativity or positivity toward MAGA correlate with feelings about Trump.
• There are internal disagreements within MAGA between populist and conservative views of abortion.
• MAGA supporters often express strong support for Israel, viewing it as an ally in the Middle East and criticizing Hamas for the escalation of violence.

The discussions show that conservatives view MAGA positively, associating it with personal freedom, protection of individual rights, and a bulwark against perceived threats like big tech censorship, 'woke' culture, and perceived liberal agenda.

Progressive Democrats

According to MIG data, the perception of progressives among left-leaning people includes:

• Leftists generally view progressives favorably, seeing them as advocates for social justice, diversity, and equity.
• Progressives are seen as champions of change, fighting for issues like race and gender equality, and climate change.
• There’s support for plight of the Palestinians and criticism of Israel for what leftists perceive as disproportionate use of force and violation of human rights.
• Discussions about the economy and taxes are relatively low, suggesting either lack of concern among leftists or quiet disagreement with progressive economic polices.
• Progressives are not directly mentioned in discussions on the border but are implicitly positioned as the ideological opponents of MAGA conservatives.
• Overall, on the top trending topics that do not include social justice and equity issues, there is low discussion volume among progressives and democrats.

The discussions show that liberals view progressivism positively, associating it with gender equality, social justice, diversity, and .

Moderates and Independents on MAGA vs Progressive

There is a clear distinction between how conservatives view MAGA and how moderates and independents see it. Similarly, leftists view progressives positively and the perception by moderates and independents tends to be more negative. The perception of both MAGA and progressives seems to be largely influenced by political affiliation, leaving moderates skeptical.

MAGA

• Some moderates perceive MAGA positively for its focus on economic growth and national pride.
• MAGA has recently gained some support from moderates and independents on things like the Texas border crisis and child sex change operations.
• There are concerns about divisive rhetoric, perceived authoritarianism, and its association with far-right ideologies.
• Many moderates perceive MAGA as an extreme or radical representation of conservative politics.
• There is criticism for controversial aspects like a perceived association with nationalism, xenophobia, and aggressive foreign policies.
• While some moderates are critical of Biden, they express skepticism about the effectiveness of MAGA’s impeachment push as a solution.
• Many moderates express dislike for Trump and an unwillingness to vote for him.

Progressives

• Some moderates appreciate the progressive focus on social issues and equality, others express concern about perceived radicalism, identity politics.
• Moderates and independents tend to support progressive views on abortion and criticize MAGA for its perceived stance on women’s health.
• There is also criticism among independents for a perceived disregard for economic realities in leftist politics and Bidenomics.
• Many moderates are critical of progressive attitudes toward the Israel-Hamas conflict.
• There is dislike for progressive silence on the border and are perceived as promoting open borders and enabling illegal immigration.
• Some feel that the progressive movement is too focused on symbolic gestures rather than substantive policy changes.