Original article posted on CBS Austin
WASHINGTON (TNND) — A new poll commissioned by the Democratic super PAC Unite the Country reveals that the Democratic Party is facing significant challenges in regaining the trust of voters. The poll indicates that many voters perceive the party as “woke,” “weak,” and “out of touch.”
Democrats have tried to do what they can in Washington where their power is limited without control of the White House or either chamber in Congress. Differences in how different factions of the party view the best way forward have led to infighting and talk of primaries on its own members – headlines that have been adding to the perception they’re not on the same page. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, however, maintains that the party is united in its efforts to stand up to Republican policies.
“The bottom line is Democrats are united. We are fighting the high costs that American people pay,” Schumer told reporters on Wednesday.
But Schumer’s tactics have been panned by some pundits and late night shows. “The Daily Show” ripped Schumer’s boast about getting the “Big Beautiful Bill” name changed in Congress, with host Jon Stewart asking, “Are you trying to suck? Is that what this is?” to laughter from his audience.
Constituents have expressed even more dissatisfaction according to some reports, with some urging members of Congress to take a stronger stand against Trump administration policies. Axios reports that constituents have told lawmakers they need to be willing to “get shot” when standing up to these policies.
Rodell Mollineau, an adviser for Unite the Country PAC, emphasized the importance of addressing those voter concerns.
“It doesn’t matter for instance if I believe the party is ‘too weak’ or ‘too woke,’ I personally don’t, but I have one vote, and this is the perception of the voters that we need in order to win elections moving forward. You have to meet voters where they are,” Mollineau said.
Steve Schale, CEO of Unite the Country PAC, highlighted the need for Democrats to refocus on economic issues to regain support from key demographics, including white males and minority voters.
“There are examples – whether it’s Bill Clinton, Barack Obama – that show you can fight for the most vulnerable, but still make it very clear your interests are on economic issues,” Schale said. “I think that’s what we have to get back to.”
But for all of the negatives and gaps where the party needs to do the most work, there’s reason to believe there’s plenty of opportunity. The poll showed voters have plenty of negative character views on the Republican party, with “corrupt,” “racist,” and “bullies” topping the surveyed traits. Mollineau said it means voters aren’t married to MAGA or the Republican party and Democrats could capitalize if they can get organized.