Democrats Are Already Moderate, and It’s Failing
Despite the recurring call for moderation in Democratic campaigns, a review of the 2024 swing seat advertisements reveals that Democrats already campaigned largely as moderates, focusing on border security, police funding, and bipartisan efforts. These campaigns, heavily emphasizing law enforcement endorsements and moderate stances, saw little movement in voter coalitions. The author suggests that the problem may be larger than message, and that simple solutions like moderation are insufficient, as the challenges may be rooted in deeper issues of political identity and shifting emotional landscapes. The example of Keir Starmer’s campaign in the UK serves as a cautionary tale, demonstrating that even a moderate approach can be overshadowed by populist movements in a culture war-driven environment.
John Q. Hosedrinker