Why is the American left not as effective as the European left?

[Harmony Blue]

199. The European left is effective because

even though they are splintered they believe in these core principles to form coalitions (ranging from center left parties all the way to Communists):

*Universal health care
*Green energy investment
*Helping the poor

Pragmitism works if the starting point is at the left. In U.S. politics the starting point is often to the right or center right (eg ACA healthcare). Had the United States moved towards something like what Canada first did and then expanded into the rest of that country your argument for gradual improvement would have merit. But what are the chances that the ACA once modified gradually over 20 years will turn into Universal health care? It is more likely that gradual expansion of medicare would turn into universal health care.

The other thing most people don't realize is that the Europeans understand that the big green energy investors is actually the Petroleum industry. Most Americans can't, or are not, willing to make that connection. But green energy is the better long term investment which leads to the next point about cultural problem with America.

America used to be about long term vision, big goals, and investment. Now, America is dominated by vulture capitalists, traders focusing on shorting stocks, etc. American left not only rejects socialism but it also rejects capitalism with long term visions or goals. It is bad enough the Republicans have retreated from capitalism for the long haul but Democrats too?

Crist is actually an example of a big thinker and long term goals. When he was governor, as a Republican, he put forth the 2020 energy plan. And if he is elected governor as a Democrat, he will push forward with even more bolder green energy plans.

How many Democrats do you know are pushing for such big ideas but also making them reality? If it takes former Republicans and Independents joining the Democratic party to make things happen the Democratic party in the United States has a lot of soul searching to do IMVHO.