Mark Thompson discusses what Democrats must do to win.

Mark Thompson visited with Politics Done Right at Netroots Nation 2024 before Harris became the nominee to discuss what Democrats must do to win, Kamala Harris, and much more.

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Mark Thompson discusses Democrats.

Podcasts (Video — Audio)

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Summary

This interview occurred before the election when there was hope that America could live down its prejudices and elect VP Kamala Harris. Speaking at Netroots Nation 2024, Mark Thompson emphasized the need for Democrats to prioritize local and state elections, focus on clear and inclusive messaging, and leverage grassroots organizing to secure victories at all levels of government. He warned against sidelining Kamala Harris and stressed the importance of bold, unapologetic progressivism to energize the base and contrast sharply with Republican failures. His call to action includes supporting independent media and pushing for transformative policies to build a more equitable future.

Key Takeaways

• Local Focus: Democrats must prioritize local and state races, which often lack media coverage but are crucial for progressive policies.

• Messaging Gaps: Clear communication of Democratic achievements is essential to counter Republican framing and engage voters.

• Kamala Harris’s Role: Sidestepping Harris would alienate key constituencies, risking voter disengagement.

• Grassroots Power: Grassroots efforts and independent media are critical for mobilizing voters and challenging corporate narratives.

• Bold Vision: Democrats must embrace progressive policies and messaging to inspire their base and draw sharp contrasts with Republicans.

Thompson’s message resonates deeply with the progressive movement’s priorities: empowering local communities, uplifting marginalized voices, and pursuing transformative change. His insistence on boldness and inclusivity reflects the progressive belief that only a united, energized coalition can defeat the entrenched forces of conservatism and pave the way for a fairer, more just society.

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The conversation between Mark Thompson and Politics Done Right (PDR) at Netroots Nation 2024 revealed critical insights into what Democrats must do to secure electoral victories at all municipal, state, and federal levels. Thompson, a seasoned commentator and advocate, challenges Democrats to focus on strategies that address structural and messaging issues within the party. His message underscores the importance of local elections, the power of coalition-building, and the necessity of clear, bold policies that galvanize the base and attract swing voters. These themes are vital as Democrats navigate the complexities of the upcoming election cycle.

Prioritizing Local and State Elections

Thompson highlights a glaring issue: the national media’s fixation on presidential politics at the expense of local and state races. These elections often determine policies directly impacting people’s daily lives, from public education to infrastructure and criminal justice reform. Yet, local candidates struggle to gain media attention or raise the funds necessary for competitive campaigns. This imbalance allows Republicans to dominate state legislatures and governorships, consolidating power that undermines progressive initiatives at the federal level.

To counteract this, Democrats must reorient their strategy. Local and state elections are the bedrock of national power. The party can cultivate a pipeline of progressive leaders and policies by investing resources in grassroots organizing and voter education. Organizations like Run for Something and Indivisible have shown how grassroots efforts can flip seats previously considered unwinnable. Expanding these efforts and integrating them into a broader Democratic strategy is essential.

Messaging and Mobilization: Learning from Republican Tactics

Thompson’s discussion also points to a broader failure in Democratic messaging. Republicans, despite policies that are often unpopular with the general electorate, have mastered the art of framing issues in a way that resonates with their base. Democrats, by contrast, frequently struggle to articulate their accomplishments and vision in a compelling, accessible manner.

For instance, while the Biden administration has achieved significant legislative victories, including infrastructure investments and climate initiatives, these successes often go unnoticed by voters. The Democratic Party must adopt a more aggressive messaging strategy, highlighting how its policies directly benefit communities. Equally important is ensuring these messages reach voters in swing districts and historically disenfranchised communities. As Thompson and PDR emphasized, investing in independent progressive media could play a crucial role in breaking through the noise of corporate media narratives.

Kamala Harris and the National Ticket

A recurring theme in the conversation is the role of Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election. The potential sidelining of Harris, the first Black woman to hold the vice presidency, could alienate key Democratic constituencies, including Black voters and women. Thompson rightly warns that bypassing Harris would be a grave political miscalculation, risking voter apathy and disenchantment.

Democrats must recognize the historical and symbolic significance of Harris’s position while also addressing concerns about her electoral viability. Strengthening her public profile through strategic appearances and policy initiatives can help solidify her as a key figure in the party’s future. Moreover, as floated in the discussion, the idea of an all-woman ticket represents a bold vision that could energize progressive and feminist movements, showcasing the party’s commitment to breaking barriers.

The Global Context: A Warning Against Complacency

Thompson draws parallels between the United States and other nations recently rejecting far-right agendas. Countries like France and the United Kingdom have experienced electoral backlashes against right-wing policies, signaling that progressive platforms can resonate when framed effectively. However, he warns that the U.S. risks falling into a state of “freefall” if Democrats fail to capitalize on the political opportunities before them.

This international perspective serves as both a caution and an inspiration. Democrats have a clear path to victory if they address voter concerns, combat misinformation, and present a united front. However, political complacency and infighting could squander this opportunity, paving the way for Republican dominance.

Conclusion: Go Bold or Go Home

The conversation concludes with a call to “go hard”—to embrace bold, unapologetic progressivism. Whether through an all-woman ticket, policies that prioritize working families, or aggressive voter outreach, Democrats must differentiate themselves clearly from Republicans. The stakes are too high for half-measures or timid approaches. As Thompson eloquently puts it, failing to seize this moment would amount to political malpractice.

The urgency of the moment demands strategic planning, grassroots energy, and a willingness to challenge conventional political norms. By focusing on local elections, improving messaging, and fostering a sense of unity and purpose, Democrats can chart a path to victory in 2024 and beyond. The work is challenging, but as Thompson and his host emphasize, it is necessary and achievable.

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