By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Despite claims that Democrats have abandoned the working class, President Biden has implemented pro-union policies, invested in job creation, and increased wages for the working class. Despite these efforts and a strong economic message from the Democratic campaign, voters still supported Trump, showing a disconnect between policy and political outcomes. This disconnect is likely due to a deep cultural divide, making it difficult for Democrats to appeal to working-class voters, particularly in the face of a demagogue like Trump. While Democrats may need to focus on retaining their base of college-educated suburban voters, they are unlikely to win back the loyalty of the working class.
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Kamala Harris’ campaign did not ignore working class voters. Her platform included policies that would have benefited working class Americans, such as tax cuts for the middle and lower class, cash assistance for first-time home buyers, and cash for babies. She was endorsed by a large number of labor unions and constantly spoke about the economy.
Despite this, many working-class voters felt that she did not have their backs. Some argued that she focused too much on the center and did not embrace progressive policies that would have appealed to a broader base. There was also a belief that she didn’t connect with working-class voters in a way that resonated with their needs and concerns.
It’s true that Harris faced significant challenges, including a constant barrage of negative messaging from the opposing side, which often focused on fearmongering and baseless accusations. Additionally, the campaign ran into a perception that she was too focused on policy and not enough on messaging, which made it difficult for her to break through the noise.
However, attributing her loss solely to a disconnect with working-class voters ignores the broader political landscape. The 2020 election was a deeply polarized one, with both sides deeply entrenched in their own beliefs. Many voters were already predisposed to vote for a certain candidate regardless of their policies.
The Democratic Party, as a whole, has faced criticism for not being able to connect with working-class voters. Some argue that the party has become too focused on identity politics and not enough on economic issues. They also point to the fact that many working-class voters are disillusioned with the political system and feel like their voices are not being heard.
It’s important to remember that politics is not a zero-sum game. Even if Harris had won, it wouldn’t have solved all of the problems facing the working class. It’s clear that the party needs to work harder to connect with working-class voters and address their concerns. This requires a commitment to a more inclusive and equitable approach, one that prioritizes the needs of all Americans, regardless of their background or income level.