even pro-slavery. But today, Democrats are seen as the party of social support and justice.

So, what exactly do Democrats believe?

Well, the modern Democratic Party traces it roots to progressive president Franklin D. Roosevelt.

At the height of the Great Depression, Roosevelt created Social Security and other

big government programs meant to protect the unemployed and working poor. Through government

sponsored public works projects, he created jobs and opportunities for those suffering

from the stock-market crash.

Today, Democrats still believe in the power of government to provide a just and equal society.

Democrats advocate stricter government regulation on big business, and larger participation

in the the social safety net. In March 2010, President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law,

thereby increasing access to healthcare via government subsidies, and decreasing

the power of private insurers. He has also increased government subsidies for low income families,

and even rolled out a program providing free internet.

The party also champions the middle class, and has generally supported labor movements

and unions. They do this by promoting progressive tax plans in which wealthier members of society

pay a higher percentage on their income than the poor and middle class. However, this isn’t

always the case. President Obama recently signed the Trans-Pacific Partnership into

law, which Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders has said will likely undercut US workers.

On social issues, Democrats are seen as being open to societal change, often helping those

who face discrimination and poverty. Although they generally oppose undocumented immigration,

they believe that the government should help those who want to immigrate while focusing

on deporting dangerous criminals. The Democratic Party considers itself an ally for LGBT causes,

citing the President’s support for same-sex marriage. In addition, they believe in a proper

separation of church and state, along with stricter gun-control laws.

And while both Republicans and Democrats have advocated for a strong military, Democrats

in particular prefer diplomatic cooperation and collaboration over military force. The

party platform emphasizes restoring America’s image by restoring a relationship with its allies.

There are a wide variety of views within the Democratic Party—just look at the differences

between Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders. But generally, Democrats tend to take a left-leaning

position, advocating equal opportunity through government regulation and oversight.

Speaking of Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders, do you want to find out more about the U.S.

presidential candidates? We did a round down on each one here.

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