As President Donald Trump issued pardons for Jan. 6 defendants, many 2028 Democratic hopefuls chose not to respond immediately. This marked a departure from the previous outrage-driven approach seen in 2017, signaling a shift in the party’s strategy at the start of Trump’s second term. Democratic state and congressional leaders are now focusing on finding ways to criticize the president while emphasizing bipartisanship and showcasing a Democratic alternative at the state level.
With Trump’s victory in the popular vote and all 50 states shifting right in the 2024 election, Democrats are facing a more challenging political landscape. The party is treading carefully, as evidenced by the subdued reactions to Trump’s pardons and Elon Musk’s gesture at the inauguration celebration. Rather than resorting to immediate outrage, Democratic leaders are taking a more measured approach to engage with the public.
According to Democratic elected officials and strategists, this shift reflects a party that is regrouping after significant losses and waiting for a potential shift in public sentiment. With Trump’s popularity on the rise and concerns over issues like inflation, culture, and border security, Democrats are working to earn back the trust of voters. The focus is on calling out Trump’s actions without resorting to sensationalism.
The reluctance to engage in immediate public responses to controversial events has left some Democrats feeling frustrated. There is a sense of a messaging void, with concerns about the party appearing rudderless. However, some see this as an opportunity for a new approach to emerge, one that focuses on substantive policy issues rather than sensational headlines.
While some Democrats, like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have been vocal in their criticism of Trump and Musk, others are taking a more cautious approach. The emphasis is on highlighting Trump’s policies that benefit the wealthy at the expense of working-class Americans. This strategic shift is evident in the Democratic National Committee chair race, which is focused on party mechanics and rebuilding state parties.
Overall, Democrats are navigating a new political landscape characterized by a more measured and strategic approach to engaging with the public. The party is reevaluating its messaging and focusing on substantive policy issues as it seeks to regain the trust of voters and define a clear Democratic brand for the future.
