Progressive candidates dominate 2024 primaries across the U.S

In the 2024 primaries, progressive candidates faced significant challenges, primarily focusing on defending their existing positions rather than seeking new victories. Many progressive organizations, including Our Revolution and the Progressive Change Campaign Committee, reduced their endorsements for non-incumbents, reflecting a strategic shift to protect incumbents from outside spending threats, particularly from groups like AIPAC. This year marked a notable change, as no Democratic incumbents lost their seats to progressive challengers, a first since 2016. Despite the defensive posture, progressive candidates still managed to win a majority of open primary races. For instance, two-thirds of Indivisible's endorsees won their primaries, although the total number of endorsements was limited. The losses of candidates endorsed by Bernie Sanders highlighted the impact of significant financial backing from opposing groups, which also targeted incumbent members of the Squad. The overall spending by progressive groups was largely directed towards protecting incumbents, with substantial resources allocated to campaigns like Raquel Terán's in Arizona. The absence of high-profile clashes between progressives and DCCC-backed candidates in open races contrasted sharply with previous election cycles, indicating a shift in the political landscape. Ultimately, while the year was challenging for some progressive figures, the movement demonstrated resilience and maintained its influence within the Democratic Party, suggesting that progressive ideals continue to hold a significant place in the party's future.