Washington, D.C. – Recent political shifts indicate a notable change in the ranking of the nation's most liberal urban areas, with Madison, Wisconsin, and Durham, North Carolina, reportedly ascending into the top five "bluest metros." This development comes as Vice President Kamala Harris has experienced significant declines in support within traditionally strong Democratic strongholds, including major cities like Boston and New York City.
The observation, highlighted in a tweet by political commentator Hunter📈🌈📊, suggests a reordering of the most liberal urban centers. "Harris had such massive declines in many of the country's largest metros (e.g. Boston, NYC) that Madison and Durham have snuck onto the list of the top 5 bluest metros," the tweet stated, pointing to a relative rather than absolute shift in political alignment.
Analysis of Vice President Harris's approval ratings in 2024 and early 2025 has indeed shown fluctuating and, in some instances, declining favorability, particularly following the 2024 presidential election. Data from various polls indicated a drop in support among certain demographics, including those in urban areas, which traditionally form a core part of the Democratic base. This erosion of support in key cities could create an opening for other liberal-leaning metros to gain prominence.
Historically, cities like Boston and New York City have consistently ranked among the most liberal in the United States, characterized by strong Democratic voter registration, progressive policies, and a high concentration of liberal-identifying residents. Their long-standing positions as deeply blue urban centers make any significant decline in Democratic support or favorability a notable political event.
Madison, the capital of Wisconsin, and Durham, a prominent city in North Carolina's Research Triangle, are recognized as liberal bastions within their respective states. Both cities boast strong academic institutions, diverse populations, and a history of progressive activism. While not always at the very top of national "most liberal city" rankings, their consistent progressive leanings, coupled with potential shifts in larger metros, could explain their reported rise in relative "blueness." This trend underscores the dynamic nature of political demographics and voter sentiment across the country.