CNN Poll that doesn't say much might have some clues for Democrats trying to figure out how to win in 2026

[lees1975]

https://signalpress.blogspot.com/2025/06/cnn-poll-indicates-frustration-with.html

I'll let some of the context clues left by the analyst speak to the accuracy of the poll, such as pointing out that while the numbers are low when it comes to job approval, they aren't necessarily a reflection of how Democrats might do in elections. Maybe that's because, in spite of the low approval numbers which mainly reflect how people feel about Democratic party leadership in Washington, those Democrats who have been involved in post-Trump inauguration elections have actually overperformed significantly, especially in red counties and red states. Personally, I'd answer a poll question about Democratic party leadership in Washington in a way that would likely reflect negatively on their approval, since I am not happy with them at all right now. But when it comes to an election, I'd never vote for a Republican.

Democrats that don't appear to be asleep at the wheel, playing the old status quo seem to be getting a lot of positive attention. In spite of criticism of her age and lack of experience--age not being a problem and lack of experience being refreshing when we need commitment to serve constituents rather than to protect turf, it seems difficult for Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to get the old guard to acknowledge her place as more than a rising star, but as a real leader. Those who just won't cross that threshold are heading for a high measure of personal and political embarassment, since she and Bernie Sanders have launched a very visible, and extremely effective movement that I believe will capture the Democratic party and move it in the right direction in time for the 2026 midterms.

It's actually quite a contrast, the enthusiasm and the sheer motivation that is turning out numbers for rallies neither major party candidate has been able to get since well before 2016. Pay close attention, because their message will be the message of the Democratic party, especially if things keep going the way they are now.

I have personally discovered that one of the most articulate Democrats in the country, with a knack for developing a vision that resonates with voters, is DNC Vice Chair David Hogg. This is a man who is pointing to ways Democrats can win elections. Being critical is fine, it's a sign, the place where his critics are coming from only confirm he knows what he is talking about and what he is doing. Of course, there are some Democrats who aren't sitting on their hands, or asleep at the wheel, who are thinking about their constituents first, but I think this poll has caught onto an attitude that might be related to the fact that the party still seems somewhat baffled by its electoral loss in 2024, and is still trying to assign blame rather than take an honest look at the weak spots, and, like Hogg has suggested, bring some new life into the party.

[JustAnotherGen]

1. David Hogg repels me

He doesn't understand people like me - or care about me. He offers nothing the benefits me.

[Silent Type]

2. Hoping for candidates that can convert a few of those who swung to trump in 2024 or sat out.