DENVER – Fresh off the best electoral performance in half a century, Democratic officials and strategists will converge on Denver starting Thursday to plot a further course for the party and revel in their gains.
The two-day What’s Next conference, hosted by a new group called Majority Democrats, was put on politicos’ calendars months ago as another stepping stone as the party charted its way out of its post-2024 political wilderness. This gathering aims to foster dialogue among party members and strategize for the upcoming electoral cycle.
Now Democrats will have to figure out what to do with majorities in both chambers of Congress and control of at least 12 new state legislative chambers. This newfound power presents both opportunities and challenges as party leaders navigate the political landscape.
The schedule includes some of the victorious candidates from the midterms, such as Texas Sen.-elect James Talarico and Iowa Sen.-elect Josh Turek. Their experiences will be invaluable as they share insights from their successful campaigns, highlighting strategies that resonated with voters.
Also, there will be potential presidential hopefuls, including former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker, and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro. Their participation indicates a vibrant future for the party, showcasing a blend of established and emerging leaders.
It’s a who’s-who of rising Democratic talent that will also make the event a showcase for the party. Each speaker brings a unique perspective, representing diverse backgrounds and experiences that reflect the evolving demographics of the Democratic base.
The gathering is also a showcase of sorts for Denver, which remains in the hunt for the party’s 2028 convention after last hosting one in 2008. The city is selling itself as a modern example of a purple state turning solid blue, and its mayor, Mike Johnston, will kick off the festivities Thursday, highlighting local successes and the state’s political transformation.
The group Majority Democrats seeks to bridge the traditional left-center splits that have riven the party for years, particularly since the 2024 election that returned President Donald Trump to the White House. By positioning itself as the voice of a new generation of party leaders, it aims to address the concerns of younger voters and those disillusioned with the status quo.
The speaker list skews noticeably young, reflecting the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and fresh ideas. This emphasis on youth is crucial as the party looks to engage and mobilize the next generation of voters.
The conference also includes various party leaders, such as the likely next House speaker, Hakeem Jeffries, who has engendered suspicion among some on the left who continue to target the party’s Washington power structure. The presence of established figures like Jeffries provides a balance between innovation and experience, crucial for navigating the complexities of modern governance.
