Why call yourself an American Democrat?
American Democrat started with a simple banner at the No Kings protest in September. We proudly carried a “Deport Trump” banner and reactions came from every direction.
On one side, liberals cheered, clapped, and snapped photos, thanking us for saying what we’re all thinking. On the other side, we got more middle fingers than we could count. Conservatives said things like “Get a job!” (We have those, thank you) and “You’re un-American if you think that!”
The contrast was striking. The sign was a comment on immigration policies and the president's felonious behavior, not a literal proposition. The strong, polarized responses made something crystal clear: our message wasn't changing minds. It didn't shift the narrative. And it certainly didn't challenge the idea—popular in MAGA circles—that Democrats are unpatriotic and un-American.
That moment sparked a bigger idea. What if there were a way to proudly express progressive values without surrendering the American identity to those who weaponize patriotism? What if being liberal didn’t have to mean appearing “un-American” in the eyes of the loudest critics?
That’s where American Democrat was born.
This grassroots movement is about reclaiming the flag, embracing the values of democracy, equality, and freedom—and wearing them boldly, proudly, and unapologetically. It’s about reminding people that patriotism doesn’t belong to one party, one ideology, or one worldview. It belongs to all of us who believe in a country that strives to live up to its ideals.
American Democrat is for people who love their country and want it to be better.
It’s for people who believe progress is patriotic.
It’s for people who want to stand for something without shouting past the people we hope to reach.
So why call yourself an American Democrat?
Because being progressive and being patriotic aren’t opposites.
They’re inseparable.
Join us in spreading this message.