Georgia | Politics
Democrats gathered in Denver for a two-day “What’s Next” conference following what participants described as the party’s strongest electoral performance since Watergate. The meeting, hosted by Majority Democrats, focused on rebuilding voter trust, policy priorities and the party’s approach to President Donald Trump’s administration.
Conference Focuses on Trust and Strategy
Sessions included “What Voters Want” and “What Needs To Change.” Jason Crow, a Colorado representative and party recruitment co-chair, said Democrats face a longer effort to regain confidence among voters.
“It took us decades to dig ourselves in a hole and to push people away from us,” Crow said. “It’s going to take us more than one cycle to earn that trust.”
Anderson Clayton criticized the party’s level of investment in the South and in Black voters. Pete Buttigieg urged Democrats not to become complacent after their electoral gains, and said the party could learn from the current White House on two fronts. He proposed a rapid-fire series of bills focused on lowering the cost of living.
Potential Candidates Attend
Incoming Iowa Gov. Rob Sand and Texas Sen.-elect James Talarico attended the conference. Other potential presidential contenders listed in connection with the gathering included Buttigieg, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Arizona Sen. Ruben Gallego and California Rep. Ro Khanna.
No attendee announced an official presidential campaign. Chris Van Hollen said he is no longer considering a White House bid and is instead pursuing the Senate’s top leadership position.
Democrats Debate Work With Trump
Participants also discussed whether, and under what circumstances, Democrats should work with the Trump administration. Elissa Slotkin said she would support legislation carrying Trump’s name if it moved the underlying policy forward. Mikie Sherrill cautioned against cooperation without conditions.
Talarico, who appeared at Denver’s Mission Ballroom on Nov. 12, said Democrats should seek productive action during the final two years of Trump’s presidency.
“The American people cannot wait two years for change, so we must work with President Trump,” Talarico said.
House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries outlined an agenda that included reversing Medicaid cuts and prohibiting members of Congress from trading stocks.