Dear Democratic Governors

Today's quote, courtesy of Thomas Paine (Common Sense): "We have it in our power to begin the world over again.”

Later this week, America’s Democratic Governors are meeting in a location just a stone’s throw from Mar-A-Lago. Preposterous spot, but ideal timing.  

Let’s take stock. At this perilous time, the Democratic Party is leaderless, bumbling, and incoherent — a record-low 29% favorability rating among voters. Even most Democrats think our leadership is failing. Past Presidents are too old, too checked out, or too toxic – particularly all things Biden. Were there accountability, Schumer and Jeffries would be out. Instead, an inside-the-beltway cacophony offers frantic conflicting prescriptions to fatigued and dispirited Democrats.  

But . . .

Twenty-three states, including a stunning eight that went for Trump in 2024 (AZ, KS, KY, MI, NM, NC, PA, and WI), have Democratic Governors.  Free of the DC stigma, these leaders can offer a compelling vision that draws in voters. To break through the noise, though, the Governors must speak with one voice.   So here’s what I hope our Governors do this week:

One Voice:  Start by pledging to act as a united, uplifting force.  For those already jockeying for the 2028 nomination, . . .  STOP.  There may not be a 2028 election unless every one of you locks arms — now. We need your unified voice, not your distinctive take.

A Bold Plan:  While in Palm Beach, agree on the timing, scope, and urgency of a winning plan. Set an aggressive deadline — weeks not months. Tap talent at your fingertips (staff and supporters). Launch it in a big way. All 23 of you on stage before a large enthusiastic audience, streamed to a nation desperate for sensible leadership. Miles from DC. Maybe Independence Hall:  “From the place where America began, we offer a new beginning.”

A New Name:  Give this emerging force a clear identity. Something better than Blue Dog. Maybe something along the lines of Constitutional Democrats or a more folksy Kitchen Table Democrats. Intentionally distance yourselves from failed DC insiders. They will object, but they’ve forfeited the right to lead. Time for them to stand down.  

A Resonant Tagline:  To counter to the effective Make America Great Again, we offer . . .  We’re Not Trump — from a Party whose brand is in the toilet. We need language that lifts and inspires. Maybe straight from The U.S. Constitution’s A More Perfect Union. 

Compelling Priorities:  Lay out what we fight for, without policy-speak. A few pillars that connect with the dreams and worries of voters. Along the lines of:  Pathways to Economic Prosperity. World-class Affordable Healthcare. Safety and Security.  Going forward, every Governor hammers on these points in every public appearance. The power of a unified voice from respected all-across-America leaders with a proven track record of winning voters in purple and red states.  

Democracy Spoke:  In a fair 2024 election, voters embraced priorities that go against the grain of Democratic Party insiders. Our governors can lead on issues Trump is attacking chaotically. Orderly, controlled immigration. A sensible balance of merit and inclusion. Government efficiency.  Our Governors can make it clear that the Democratic Party respects the voice of voters, will act decisively, and will work in concert with any well-conceived initiative from this administration. But . . . 

Set clear boundaries:  We will fight any directive that violates the U.S. Constitution.

In playing a longer game, we can anticipate that the Mad King of Bankruptcy (ten to date) will inflict financial pain on Americans, including millions of his voters. As approval ratings tank, team Trump will stop at nothing to cling to power. This we know. But America’s blue states produce 60% of America’s GDP and pay 2/3rds of federal income taxes. Governors must be ready to wield that economic power to uphold The Constitution and ensure a fair election in 2028 when a financially-hammered America rejects the lunacy and puts its trust in a revitalized Democratic Party.

Hoping for a unified voice from 23 Governors,

Ted