On Saturday, at their winter meeting in National Harbor, Maryland, Democrats will make their first consequential decision since their November drubbing: selecting a new chair of the DNC. Then comes the hard part: settling on an anti-Trump message that resonates with voters in a country that has shifted right.
The article from Politico's Playbook newsletter discusses the challenges faced by Democrats in the first week of 2025, highlighting several key issues. It mentions the ongoing border crisis, with a significant increase in migrant encounters at the U.S.-Mexico border, leading to political pressure on the Biden administration. Additionally, there's mention of a special election in New York's 3rd Congressional District, where Democrats are struggling to maintain their seat, reflecting broader voter dissatisfaction. The piece also touches on the internal Democratic Party dynamics, with some members pushing for a more centrist approach to address voter concerns about crime, immigration, and economic issues. Furthermore, it notes the GOP's strategic moves, like the impeachment inquiry into President Biden, which adds to the political turmoil. The overall tone suggests a week of defensive positioning for Democrats as they navigate these multifaceted challenges.