Why Radical Islamists Align with the Progressive Left

In American politics, the progressive left is often associated with sexual permissiveness and social liberalism. Intriguingly, this movement seems to have an unexpected ally in radical Islamists, who are fundamentally opposed to many of the values championed by the left.

This alignment might seem paradoxical. From a fundamentalist perspective, the left’s progressive stance on issues like LGBTQ+ rights and abortion is at odds with conservative Islamic values. So, why do radical Islamists often find themselves voting left?

In my past as an extremist, I viewed leftist ideologies as more easily manipulated compared to the principled conservatives. To me, the left's perceived lack of core values made them a more suitable partner for radical agendas. Conservatives, with their firm principles, were seen as a threat to such agendas, while leftists appeared more susceptible to ideological manipulation.

Radical Islamists see the left's focus on issues like climate change and abortion as distractions. They believe that while leftists push these agendas, they simultaneously undermine their own values, making them easier to influence. The perception is that leftists are preoccupied with their causes to the extent that they become disconnected from fundamental principles, creating opportunities for radical ideologies to gain a foothold.

Ultimately, the radical agenda envisions a future where America is significantly influenced by or aligned with Islamic values. The paradox lies in the way these two seemingly incompatible ideologies can find common ground, despite their differing core principles.