The year is 1984. Ronald Reagan wins the presidency in a landslide, leaving the Democrats seemingly adrift in a politically right-leaning America. Al From, a political strategist, remembers this well. His response was the creation of the Democratic Leadership Council (DLC), dedicated to rebuilding the party and making it electable again. This strategy proved successful in 1992 with Bill Clinton’s victory. Now, four decades later, facing another crushing defeat, From offers advice for the Democrats’ resurgence.
From emphasizes the need for a significant, not incremental, shift in the party’s definition to garner public recognition. He stresses the importance of a new generation of leaders to redefine the Democratic brand for long-term success. His central question is: how to build a solid Democratic center to achieve a center-left majority?
The recent defeat of Kamala Harris by Donald Trump has triggered intense soul-searching within the Democratic party. Questions abound: should Joe Biden have withdrawn earlier? Was Harris a casualty of global economic trends? Did issues of gender, race, and culture wars play a significant role? Did the party become too focused on identity politics, neglecting the concerns of working-class Americans?
From’s analysis points to fundamental issues as the primary driver of the defeat. He highlights widespread dissatisfaction with the country’s direction, Biden’s low approval ratings, rampant inflation, and concerns about safety and security, particularly regarding the border and crime. While crime statistics may have been decreasing, public perception, fueled by media coverage, painted a different picture. He notes that many Americans prioritized improving their daily lives over perceived existential threats posed by Trump.
The Republican trifecta victory—White House, Senate, and House—draws parallels to the 1984 landslide. However, From cautions against oversimplifying the comparison. The political landscape is far more intensely divided than in the 1980s, influenced by heightened partisanship and the echo chambers of modern media. While the Republicans were arguably dysfunctional, From argues that the Democrats’ situation is not as dire as in 1984. Nevertheless, he expresses concern over trends among working-class voters, regardless of race or ethnicity, warning that these trends, if unchecked, could lead to another period of political wilderness.
Voter surveys reveal a concerning shift, with Trump securing 43% of the Latino vote—an eight-point increase from 2020—and flipping traditionally Democratic strongholds. A significant portion of Black men under 45 also voted for Trump. Bernie Sanders echoed these concerns, stating that the party’s neglect of the working class resulted in its abandonment.
From adds his own warning, noting the long-term loss of white working-class voters and expressing apprehension about the Hispanic vote as immigrant groups assimilate. He points to the appeal of Republican social conservatism and entrepreneurialism among this demographic. He emphasizes the need to address these shifting trends before they become insurmountable.
The Democrats faced a similar sense of defeat during the Reagan era. From’s DLC, established in 1985, successfully shifted the party towards the center by embracing pro-business policies, a tough stance on crime, and welfare reform. While the party lost three consecutive elections, the DLC’s influence played a pivotal role in Clinton’s 1992 victory.
While acknowledging significant changes since then, From believes the lesson of clear vision and strong leadership remains relevant. He rejects incremental change and advocates for a unified message from future leaders, defining the party’s values and priorities for the American people. This, he argues, must be a clear and cohesive message, not a patchwork of concessions to various interest groups.
From, a staunch centrist, believes that economic growth, not economic populism, is the key. He advocates for the party to present itself as one of opportunity, responsibility, and community, not solely as a left-leaning party. He urges a more moderate stance on issues such as law enforcement and immigration, promoting community policing and controlled legal immigration.
He emphasizes the importance of reaching moderate suburban voters who appreciate the Democratic party’s compassionate approach but question its governing abilities. He urges the party to embrace, not alienate, this crucial demographic. He stresses the need for a compelling message to attract voters, arguing that a good product ultimately sells itself.
Finally, From speculates on potential Democratic standard-bearers for 2028, mentioning several successful governors who have demonstrated their ability to build broad coalitions within their states. He believes these governors could play a vital role in charting a new course for the national party, focusing on a clear agenda and shared values to attract wider support.