What's New
Prominent Democratic National Committee (DNC) fundraiser Lindy Li has announced her departure from the Democratic Party, citing a toxic internal culture and backlash over her critiques of Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden.
In a series of media appearances, Li has claimed that allies of Donald Trump have been more "humane" to her than her former party.
Newsweek has reached out to Lindy Li, Donald Trump's spokesperson, and the DNC for comment.
Why It Matters
Li likened her exit to "leaving a cult," sparking debate about dissent within the party. Her departure follows a series of events in which she questioned Vice President Kamala Harris's political ambitions and President Joe Biden's fitness for office. She also voiced support for Donald Trump's defense secretary nominee, Pete Hegseth.
These statements triggered significant backlash, including accusations of disloyalty and social media campaigns to discredit her. Li reported losing 40,000 followers on social media within days.
What To Know
In an appearance on Fox News, Li described her departure as akin to escaping a restrictive and punitive environment. "It's like leaving a cult," she said, explaining that she was ostracized for questioning Harris's political ambitions and Biden's leadership abilities.
"This past week has been harrowing for me," Li said during an interview with Piers Morgan on Wednesday. "On Saturday, I went on Fox & Friends and said, 'Democrats have a stench of loser hanging over them.' As soon as I said that, there were boycott campaigns against me—unblock, unfollow campaigns."
Her criticism intensified after she expressed support for Pete Hegseth and again described the Democratic Party as having a "stench of loser." The remarks prompted swift retaliation, including accusations of disloyalty and coordinated efforts to undermine her online presence.
"I lost tens of thousands of followers because I dared to tell the truth," Li said. "In a cult, you can't tell the truth or ask questions, but I'm done with that."
Li's decision, seen by some as emblematic of growing discontent within the party, has provoked sharp backlash from current members. It has also sparked broader conversations about the Democrats' future as the 2024 election approaches.
Despite the criticism, Li expressed optimism about the incoming Trump administration. She noted tech billionaires like Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos donating to Trump's inauguration and suggested that a new era of "prosperity" might be on the horizon.
What People Are Saying
Keith Edwards, Democratic strategist, on Bluesky:
"Grifter @lindyli has announced she's leaving the Democratic Party. How long until she's wearing a MAGA hat?"
Tim Ryan, former Ohio congressman, in The New York Times:
"The Dems got pinned as the status quo party on inflation, instability, insecurity, and every other issue facing working people. Trump was the change candidate in a year when 65 percent of people thought we were on the wrong track."
What Happens Next
Li has hinted at aligning with conservative organizations, stating her desire to work with groups that exhibit "common decency." She also confirmed during an interview with Fox Business that she will attend Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025.
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