The 2026 Democratic primary season was unusually fractious. Pundits proclaimed electorate trends and emphasized differences between progressives and establishment/corporate Democrats, rather than between them and the Republican candidates. On social media we’re seeing infighting between progressives and establishment supporters, which is counter-productive to our cause. Let’s take a minute to look at the big picture – it will help us unite to bring our primary winners over the victory line in November. Here are some take-homes:
- Will this election be a Blue Wave? No, this is a change election, not necessarily a blue wave. Voters are showing real anger at incumbents, both Democrats and Republicans. This is one reason progressive candidates have been more successful this summer.
- Why is 47% of America walking away from both parties? Many voters see no differences between establishment Democrats and Republicans. They think democracy doesn’t matter because it has not delivered for them. Voters want strong policies to help them, and may reject centricism. Voters under 40 demand bold change, gravitate toward progressive candidates, and are not afraid of the phrase “democratic socialism.”
- The Candidate Matters. Yes, the candidate has to fit the district, but charismatic leaders who can clearly communicate real actions and policies have captured the attention of the electorate demanding change. The key is to follow through with bold changes. Mamdani is showing how to do that as Mayor of New York City, and its citizens are embracing him.
Many of us have worked tirelessly for our preferred primary candidates, publicizing what we don’t like about the opposition and why our candidate is better. But here’s the bottom line: We must fight every Republican candidate in the general election if we are to win back the Senate and the House. Winning both chambers will give us the power for true oversight. Hearings are already being prepared for the corruption and incompetence of the cabinet officials. We can do that with just a House majority. But those wanting to do more, or even impeach Trump, should know that Democrats must control the Senate as well to accomplish this.
Ezra Levin of Indivisible summarizes it best. We should strive for:
- Big tent unity (no inflaming intraparty tensions).
- Clear opposition (focus on creating contrast between Democrats and this corrupt, malevolent regime).
“The primary was a different job – where unity was less important than transforming “the Democratic Party into a fighting force. Indivisible won most of the fights we picked; and we lost some. But the time for intraparty chest-thumping or recrimination is not now. Our job is not to triumph in online arguments. Our job now is to win.”
Ezra concludes, “Before you invest your limited attentional energy in national politics this fall, I suggest you ask one question: does this help us win? And if you see compatriots straying, consider offering a friendly redirect.”