Ana Kasparian, co-host of The Young Turks, is speaking out about her split from the Democratic Party, describing herself as “politically orphaned” after feeling alienated by what she calls an increasingly dogmatic and intolerant left. In a candid chat on Jillian Michaels’ podcast, the California-based journalist detailed her frustration with her former political home, triggered by her experience of being criticized after sharing a personal trauma.
Kasparian recounted an incident in 2022 when two men, assumed to be homeless, sexually harassed her while she walked her dog. But when she shared her fear and frustration, she was blindsided by accusations from some liberals, who claimed she was “painting a wrongful picture” of the homeless community and even accused her of racism—despite her not disclosing the men’s race. “That woke me up,” Kasparian said, noting that she began to see hypocrisy within her political circle.
She argued that today’s left has become “dogmatic” and quick to exile anyone who questions the status quo on issues like crime. “I don’t want to be pigeon-holed in any political tribe,” Kasparian explained, adding that the “if you disagree, you’re the enemy” mentality of recent years has fueled her disillusionment.
Both she and Michaels voiced concerns that the left’s approach to handling crime and social issues pushes people away. Kasparian criticized what she called a “defeatist” stance toward minorities, urging a more celebratory approach toward those striving to improve their lives. Her ultimate goal? To “reject political tribalism” and feel free to form her own views without risking backlash.
As more self-described “disaffected Democrats” share their stories, Kasparian’s experience highlights a growing group of former left-wing voices who now find themselves politically homeless in an increasingly polarized climate.
