Moderate vs. Centrist: What's the Difference?

The differences between a moderate vs. centrist can be tricky to understand. After all, the labels "centrist" and "moderate" are often used interchangeably, and both centrists and moderates tend to advocate for balance and reject more extreme ideologies. However, their approaches to governance and policy can differ widely. 

Many Americans are drawn to middle-ground perspectives in today's political landscape, where extreme political ideologies often dominate the news. Some may call themselves moderates, emphasizing balance and pragmatism, while others identify as centrists, seeking solutions that pull from both sides of the spectrum.

But what exactly sets a centrist apart from a moderate? Is one more independent than the other? Does their approach to governance and decision-making differ? Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone seeking political discourse without being boxed into a rigid ideological camp.

In this article, we’ll break down the key differences and similarities between centrists and moderates, explore their roles in modern politics, and examine how each influences policy and governance.

LEARN MORE: Understand the Nolan Chart to see where you fall on the political spectrum.

What Is a Moderate?

A moderate is someone whose political views fall between the left and right of the political spectrum. Moderates often seek middle-ground solutions that incorporate aspects of both progressive and conservative policies. 

Some moderates even identify with one political party or another, like moderate Democrats or moderate Republicans. For instance, Senator Susan Collins from Maine is often seen as a Moderate Republican for her willingness to reach across the aisle and find compromises, and former Ohio Governor John Kasich is also described as a Moderate Republican for his emphasis on seeking bipartisan solutions. Other moderates may choose to identify more as Independents or non-partisans, though. 

Moderates used to be the largest ideological group in the United States in the 1990s, with 43% of Americans calling themselves moderates in 1992. But that percentage has fallen in recent years. As of 2024, only 34% of Americans identify as moderates. 

Moderates typically prioritize bipartisan solutions, and politicians who identify as moderate are often seen as key players in bridging divides on contentious issues in Congress. 

Key Characteristics of Moderates

• Support for balanced and incremental changes

• Openness to compromises across party lines

• Opposition to extreme partisan politics and ideologies

• Emphasis on pragmatic, issue-based decision-making

LEARN MORE: Check out the key differences between Independents vs. moderates. 

Consequences of Moderate Approaches

While a moderate approach to politics can result in incremental reforms and avoiding extreme or sudden policy changes, their focus on compromise can lead to gridlock and stalemate. Especially in highly polarized times, moderates may find themselves stuck between two unmoving sides, demanding concessions from the other. Additionally, moderates may act against the best interests of their constituents by focusing on appeasing both sides and preventing any bold or progressive policies on principle.

What Is a Centrist?

Centrists believe in true middle-ground political thought, holding political beliefs generally equidistant from either end of the spectrum. Centrism is less about finding compromises between Democratic or Republican policies and more about actively vouching for policies that include elements from both ideologies. However, individual interpretations of those policies can differ. Some centrists may support free-market economic policies while advocating for social welfare programs, while others may want strong national defense without compromising support for civil liberties.

Democratic Senator Joe Manchin is often seen as a centrist because he advocates for legislative actions supporting liberal and conservative views. For example, he supports investments in clean energy while also vouching for job expansion in the coal industry. 

Most centrists reject party affiliation, believing neither end of the political spectrum fully aligns with their beliefs nor addresses the complex nature of governance. Rather than aligning with the left or right, centrists may call themselves non-partisans or Independents. As of 2023, Independents are the largest voting bloc in the United States, with 43% of Americans defining their political alignment as politically independent. 

LEARN MORE: Understand the differences between being Independent and having no party affiliation.

Key Characteristics of Centrists

• A mix of conservative and liberal policies based on issue evaluation

• Belief in pragmatic governance over ideological loyalty

• Preference for evidence-based policymaking

• Rejection of polarizing political rhetoric

Consequences of Centrist Approaches

By crafting a blend of left and right ideologies, centrists often support policies that naturally bridge both sides of the aisle. However, this blend of ideas can run into similar issues as moderates. Centrist policies can seem watered down and may not satisfy those who feel firmly entrenched in one party platform or another. Additionally, centrists walk a fine line by not aligning with either party. Often, centrist constituents support them for their unbiased and non-partisan positions, so any support a centrist shows for one party or the other can compromise their voters’ trust. 

LEARN MORE: Explore the third parties in the United States working to offer more alternatives to Republican and Democratic ideologies. 

What Do Centrists and Moderates Have in Common?

It’s no surprise that the terms centrist and moderate are often used interchangeably — they have quite a bit in common that sets them apart from other ideologies. Both prioritize practical solutions over sticking to party lines and value reaching across the aisle and bipartisan cooperation. Additionally, moderates and centrists play a crucial role in political discourse, mediating between extreme political ideas and emphasizing compromise. 

Shared Traits of Centrists and Moderates:

• Advocacy for balanced, pragmatic policies

• Resistance to political extremism

• Willingness to negotiate and find compromise

• Focus on issue-based decision-making rather than party loyalty

LEARN MORE: Explore why Independent typically means more than moderate or centrist. 

Core Differences Between Centrist vs. Moderate Ideologies

While centrists and moderates have much in common, their approaches to governance can differ significantly. Some primary areas in which they differ include: 

• Philosophy: Centrists actively blend policies from both ends of the spectrum, while moderates prefer a middle-ground approach.

• Compromise: Centrists prioritize balanced policies over compromise, while moderates advocate for compromise and bipartisan solutions. 

• Policy Approach: Centrists support policies from both sides, while moderates seek slow and incremental changes to avoid drastic political shifts.

• Affiliation: Centrists often identify as Independent or non-partisan, while moderates may align with one party or another. 

Ultimately, centrists carefully craft policies integrating aspects from multiple political ideologies, searching for the best solutions regardless of who had the idea first. On the other hand, moderates prioritize avoiding extreme shifts by advocating for gradual, balanced changes and finding compromise between political extremes. Centrists are more likely to take a firm stance based on policy effectiveness, whereas moderates tend to be more flexible and willing to adjust positions to build consensus.

LEARN MORE: Explore the idea of political triangulation and how it affects political campaigning.

Centrist vs. Moderate: The Search for Effective, Balanced Solutions

As voters and engaged citizens, we must recognize that politics has no one-size-fits-all solution. In a world where partisan divides are deepening, the search for Independent candidates who match your values is more relevant than ever. These candidates, be they centrists, moderates, Independents, or non-partisans, often challenge the American two-party system, breaking down traditional party lines and offering a much-needed alternative to the extremes on either side.

Understanding where your own beliefs fall between centrist vs. moderate approaches can help you make informed decisions at the polls. Supporting those who prioritize evidence-based policies, compromise, and balanced governance can help us all work towards creating a political system that works for us, the people, rather than the political parties and donors. Both moderate and centrist ideas can foster collaboration, reduce polarization, and ensure that policies truly reflect the diverse needs of all citizens.

Whether you lean more toward being a moderate or a centrist, the key is advocating for solutions that transcend ideological divides. Through informed voting and the support of Independent candidates who share your commitment to pragmatic, inclusive policies, you can help shape a political future that values reasoned discourse over partisan rivalry.

Photo by Vladislav Babienko on Unsplash