Final answer:
The best examples of progressive political reforms include the introduction of progressive taxation, labor laws, the 17th amendment for the direct election of senators, and other measures for direct democracy and social justice championed by leaders such as Robert La Follette and Theodore Roosevelt.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best example of progressive political reforms can be seen in the actions of reformers like Robert M. ("Fighting Bob") La Follette and Theodore Roosevelt at the state level, as well as national legislative and constitutional changes.
These reforms included the establishment of progressive taxation, essential labor laws for workers' compensation, an eight-hour workday, and safer conditions, which addressed issues of social justice for various groups, including the working poor, immigrants, and women.
Progressives strove to expand democracy through direct democracy measures like the direct primary, the referendum process, and the passing of the 17th amendment for the direct election of U.S. senators.