Appeasing ‘the middle’ doesn’t work for Dems

For over 100 years, the Democratic Party has pushed for progress, bringing together people from all walks of life — working families, communities of color, women, LGBTQ+ individuals and many more.

The state of Illinois is a prime example of what can happen when this coalition works in harmony. With its diverse electorate and progressive policies on healthcare, climate change and social justice, Illinois stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when Democrats embrace their base and work to uplift everyone in our society.

But when faced with defeat, the party often makes the mistake of veering away from its core values. Instead of doubling down on policies that reflect the needs of its diverse base, the party sometimes compromises, leaning into centrist positions that only end up alienating its most loyal supporters.

Take Raphael Warnock in Georgia and Doug Jones in Alabama as examples. After historic voter mobilization efforts, they showed us what a true progressive movement could look like in the South and proved what’s possible when Democrats engage with Black voters.

Too often, that effort feels like a one-off, not a sustained commitment. Now more than ever, the Democratic Party must wake up to the true nature of our coalition and recognize that within our most committed communities, we have enough votes to build the power needed to create progressive change.

This pattern of abandoning dedicated voters from communities of color in favor of courting independents has proven to be a repeated mistake year after year. In southern states and swing states alike, Black communities hold the key to higher voter turnout — and Democrats know those are votes they can count on. So, why does the party keep looking elsewhere?

When the party chooses moderation over the bold, progressive change its base demands, it risks losing trust and support — especially among communities that have long been marginalized.

This is one of the most pivotal moments in history for taking action for those who fight for justice and equality. The time is now for Democrats to build a future that honors the true strength of their coalition and ensure no one is left behind to appease the middle.

Alexandra Sims, APS & Associates, Chicago