In this article, Type Media Center fellow Ari Berman, along with Jacob Rosenberg, raises the argument that Democrats’ narrow focus on defending democracy without addressing systemic reforms undermined their appeal in the 2024 election, ultimately allowing Trump to position himself as the change candidate.
Highlights
- The article highlights a disconnect between voters and the democratic system, noting the common belief among voters that American democracy does not benefit them, and that it is corrupt, elitist, and self-serving. Berman cites Pew Research statistics which found that only 4% of Americans believe the political system is working well, and 58% say that it needs significant change or an overhaul.
- Berman writes that Democrats’ defense of democracy was perceived by many as defending the status quo, with messaging that lacked tangible solutions or a vision for how democracy could improve people’s lives.
- The article notes that a key voter frustration was the high cost of political campaigns, along with the influence of major donors; the reporters posit that, by avoiding these issues, Democrats missed an opportunity to connect with voters’ desire for reform.
- Berman argues that a reluctance to critique American institutions contributed to Democrats’ portrayal as defenders of a broken system, therefore undermining their appeal to a frustrated electorate.
Type Media Center’s Note
This article by our fellow Ari Berman reflects Type Media Center’s dedication to nurturing independent journalism that not only informs but strives for societal change.