Sarah Longwell on How Democrats Can Reconnect With Voters and Shape America’s Future
JUDJ-Prepared Summary from September 30, 2026 | How to Eat an Elephant: One Voter — and One Election — At a Time. The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the speaker.
In a recent America at a Crossroads discussion, Sarah Longwell, publisher of The Bulwark, host of The Focus Group podcast, and author of How to Eat an Elephant: One Voter at a Time, joined journalist Pat Morrison to discuss what Democrats must do to rebuild trust with American voters. Drawing on years of focus groups, Longwell examined the importance of economic security, authentic political communication, and the need for a compelling vision that extends beyond opposition to Donald Trump.
It's Still the Economy
Longwell emphasized that voters generally evaluate political leaders through two fundamental questions: Will they keep my family safe, and will they improve my material well-being?
While political insiders may focus on constitutional norms, institutional integrity, and national controversies, everyday Americans are often more concerned about groceries, housing, healthcare, and energy costs.
Longwell argued that Democrats underestimated this dissatisfaction during the 2024 election. Although economic indicators suggested improvement, many voters continued to struggle financially.
She believes Trump’s failure to deliver the economic improvements many supporters expected has created an opportunity for Democrats, particularly among rural and working-class voters who helped build his coalition.
But winning those voters back will require more than criticizing Trump.
Rebuilding the Working-Class Coalition
Longwell noted that Democrats once enjoyed strong support from a multiracial working-class coalition, including voters who have increasingly shifted toward Republicans.
She believes Democrats must reconnect with these Americans by demonstrating how their policies will improve everyday life.
Rather than presenting voters with an overwhelming list of Republican failures, Longwell recommends a simpler approach: explain what opponents are doing wrong, then clearly communicate what Democrats would do differently.
She pointed to political figures such as Jon Ossoff and Zohran Mamdani as examples of candidates who use distinct communication styles while consistently emphasizing issues that matter to voters.
Authenticity Over Political Scripts
Longwell also challenged Democrats to abandon overly cautious, scripted messaging.
When politicians ask her what they should say about a particular issue, she often responds by asking what they actually believe.
She argues that voters respond to leaders who speak naturally, acknowledge difficult questions, and communicate genuine convictions.
Even admitting uncertainty can build credibility. Rather than pretending to have every answer, politicians should demonstrate curiosity, compassion, and a willingness to engage honestly with complicated issues.
Preparing Americans for an Uncertain Future
Beyond immediate economic concerns, Longwell highlighted growing anxiety about artificial intelligence and data centers.
Her focus groups revealed concerns about rising electricity costs, changes to rural communities, and the possibility that AI could eliminate jobs.
These fears reflect a larger question facing American workers: What will the economy look like in 20 years, and where will they fit into it?
Longwell believes political leaders must provide credible answers.
Although optimistic about Democrats’ prospects in the 2026 midterm elections, she warned that electoral victories alone will not solve the party’s structural challenges.
For Longwell, lasting political renewal requires rebuilding trust, addressing economic insecurity, and offering Americans a vision of the future worth supporting.
About America at a Crossroads
Since April 2020, America at a Crossroads has produced weekly virtual programs on topics related to the preservation of our democracy, voting rights, freedom of the press, and a wide array of civil rights, including abortion rights, free speech, and free press. America at a Crossroads is a project of Jews United for Democracy & Justice.