Under ordinary circumstances, when any president could boast of the quality of the American economy, he would be considered, and almost, shoot, for being re-elected! However, as most realize, these are anything but normal times! On the other hand, when an incumbent has such low favorable ratings as President Trump, he might think it’s easy to regain control of the White House. But, once again, we are going through a very unusual period of time. While we can expect Mr. Trump to continue campaigning for re-election in 2020, as he has during his well-attended rallies, using a lot of rhetoric, making numerous claims, often fear-mongering, blaming immigrants, etc., it is much less certain, precisely, what the plan/strategy of the Democratic Party could be, to defeat this President, while simultaneously gaining control of the United States Senate and maintaining its majority in the House of Representatives. With that in mind, this article will briefly attempt to consider, examine, review, and discuss some of the options for it.
one. Focus on Trump: Although, most polls indicate that potential voters oppose many of the policies, actions, rhetoric, etc. of Mr. Trump, and mistrust remains, based on the many reported activities of his campaign and those around him (as well as other potential scandals), the strength and loyalty of the president’s core base/supporter, as well as the design of the Electoral College makes it uncertain whether one can be elected simply by opposing an incumbent, especially with the advantages most incumbents have, on the campaign trail!
two. Outside – Progressive, with each other: How far do the electorate, the Democrats, want to move to the political left? Will nominating someone from the far left of center, considered, drive away independent voters and more moderate individuals? Won’t this make it easier for Trump, who would no doubt use rhetoric, negative slogans, and other scare tactics to convince these voters that they should be afraid to vote for them?
3. Keep progressive voters: When Hillary Clinton was nominated, many of Bernie Sanders’ most ardent supporters did not vote, they voted for one of the minor candidates, or they voted for Donald Trump. If Sanders doesn’t get the nomination, will we see this again? Which candidate or candidates might be attractive to these people, while also attracting more moderate people?
Four. Women Voters: How could women react to the rhetoric of this president and the apparent policies and ideas contrary to the right to decide? Will there be a better turnout than usual? How can Democrats appeal to these voters without taking them for granted and preventing them from being a one-issue party/campaign?
5. Minorities: Will the rhetoric of hate and blame appeal to minorities, in greater numbers than usual, or will it appeal to and inspire people, referred to by Mrs. Clinton, as the deplorableto go to the polls?
6. Age: How big will the age factor be? Given that 3 of the leading Democratic candidates (in the polls) are in their 70s or older, as is President Trump, will age be a factor? Do voters want someone younger? Would someone be more attractive, less identified with the status quo, or younger?
7. What is the plan – What do they represent?: Do voters want to hear a different vision, one that addresses needs, perceptions, priorities and is relevant and sustainable? How will they balance the need to pay attention to climate change issues, while showing a better way to address the economic, employment and health care needs of our citizens?
8. Health care: It is Medicare for allappealing to potential voters, or it will scare them away, due to unknowns such as costs, how it might work, etc.
9. Regaining control of Congress: Unless/until Democrats also control both houses of Congress, how will things really change for the better? This will require a district-by-district, state-by-state battle, with workable ideas and solutions, to restore America’s many threatened constitutional guarantees, such as freedoms, justice, and liberty, to all!
There is no easy question on this topic. Balancing politics, common sense and empathy will be a must, to do it!