"No one knew what the hell we stood for": Dems ease off democracy message for '25

Top Democrats are shifting away from focusing on saving democracy in their campaigns, prioritizing economic issues instead. This adjustment follows the 2024 presidential race where voters seemed more concerned with high prices than democratic norms under Trump. Democratic officials recognize the need to connect with voters on economic matters. Virginia and New Jersey gubernatorial candidates are emphasizing lowering costs and fighting crime. Their strategies are a departure from the previous focus on Trump as a threat to democracy. The shift reflects a belief that economic concerns outweigh worries about democratic ideals for many voters. Democrats are still addressing Trump, but linking opponents to his handling of economic issues. While the liberal base still cares about democratic ideals, the party is testing a new approach. The strategy aims to expose the economic costs associated with Trump's policies. Tuesday's election results will indicate whether this approach is effective.