General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Ibram Kendi: "...We need evidence that progressives hurt down ballot democrats..." on MJ [View all]Demsrule86
(71,542 posts)to run in red and purple states or even in GOP leaning districts in blue states. While I believe in the progressive message. I know this message can hurt us during elections in certain states and districts...this year some of our House and Legislature candidates were hurt by defund the police messages which were on some prominent progressives websites with a good explanation, but if you have to explain you have already lost the argument.
Our candidates were painted as far left. This cost us seats in the House and, the state level and possibly the Senate. I would love to see progressives win in every state. I am working a project in Ohio at the grassroots level to share the progressive message and make it more palatable in a states like Ohio. I believe the policies we want for this country will benefit everyone and can be used to win hearts and minds, but we are not there yet. We are at best a center left country.
I want to win elections period. If you don't win, you get nothing. Thus I am all about a 50 state big tent strategy. While I subscribe to the progressive message and values, I am willing to elect moderate if need be and get something done. I believe at this point in order to hold majorities nationally and at the state level there is no choice. Let's work to change hearts and minds so we can elect progressive red or purple states or districts. But in the meantime field candidate who can win and don't put obstacles in our path like the phrase 'defund the police'. Yes I understand the meaning and agree but many don't. I would point out that the only reason we have a chance to take back the Senate is moderate candidates like Sinema and Kelly. We will have a chance in 22 in PA and in WI to elect two more senators.