Most Americans appear to have a clear – cut opinion, regarding the current President. They, either, are core supporters, or, seem to be, somewhat, extremely opposed to his so – called, leadership! In order for this nation to benefit, we need leaders, ready, willing, and able, to look beyond their personal/ political agenda, and/ or self – interest, and seek, making a difference for the better, for the common good! However, although public official polls, have consistently indicated, Donald J. Trump has an unfavorable rating, and there are more, opponents, than supporters, Democrats must, if they wish, to regain the office, in 2020, figure out, both, how, to defeat the man, while bringing people together, towards a meeting – of – the – minds. Historically, until the past few decades, we elected Presidents, who, held middle – of – the road, positions, within, approximately five percent, of the political center/ middle. Therefore, it might be, extremely challenging, to defeat, the current leader, of the free world, despite his issues, and degree of unpopularity, unless/ until, the Democratic Party attracts voters, with meaningful/ viable ideas and solutions, which motivate, not only the left – wing, but the independent, centrist parts of the electorate! With that in mind, this article will attempt to, briefly, consider, examine, review, and discuss, 6 essential keys, which must be clearly considered, and focused – upon.
1. It’s not enough to simply, oppose, President Trump!: If they wish to regain control of the White House, it will be essential to do more, than simply, proclaim opposition to Trump, but, also, to proceed, strategically, in a way, which inspires and motivates, potential voters, to support, them, because they are ready, willing, and able to clearly contrast, their positions, and approaches, in a positive manner!
2. Demonstrate genuine empathy: Most people want their leaders, to understand, and care, about citizens perceptions, needs, and priorities, and be willing to effectively listen and learn, from every conversation and experience. Although Trump’s supporters, perceive, he is one of them, and appear willing to overlook his weaknesses, etc, because of that, his potential election opponents, must expand their supporter – base, beyond, merely, Trump – haters, and inspire and motivate, individuals, who share their vision of a more inclusive, nation, and adherence to the Constitutional principles of freedom, liberty, and justice, for all!
3. Create a winnable, relevant platform: Instead of, merely, opposing what President Trump, represents, the Democrats must introduce an inspiring, motivating, relevant platform, focused on making a quality difference, for the better!
4. Broad appeal: Is there any current, Democratic, proclaimed, candidate, who is guaranteed to defeat President Trump, in an election campaign? Remember, it’s not enough to, simply, appeal to a broader base, but to be able to claim a necessary majority of the Electoral College, as well! In order to do so, care must be taken, to avoid, a message, which appeals, merely, to those states, considered, more liberal, but, also, to the swing – states, including, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Nevada, etc, as well.
5. Progressive, but also, pragmatic: The challenge, may be, finding a candidate, progressive, enough, to attract progressives, to cast their votes, while reclaiming, the loyalties, of the more moderate, so – called, Independent voters!
6. Positive/ motivating, instead of, adversarial/ polarizing: If they wish to win, the candidate, selected, must contrast his solutions – oriented, approach, with the more negative, articulation, of the current office – holder! The nation needs, and truly, seeks, a leader, focused on relevant, sustainable solutions, instead of mere, populist rhetoric, and empty promises!
Will the Democrats, follow a meaningful strategy, and maximize the opportunity, to win, and make a positive difference, for the better, or, shoot themselves in the leg, and, be, too smug, to broaden their appeal, while maintaining their focus on viable solutions, and bringing us together? What do you believe, the odds, are, and why?