In a pivotal moment for Democratic strategy, Molly Murphy, a key pollster for Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign, addressed top party officials with a pressing message: the old playbook will not work against Donald Trump. During one of the Democratic National Committee’s (DNC) first post-election meetings,
Murphy laid out a clear case for why the Democratic Party must adopt a new strategy to counter Trump in his second term as president. Her remarks have sparked discussion on how the party can effectively connect with voters, especially in light of significant challenges like inflation and shifting demographics.
The 2025 Playbook: Why Democrats Need a New Strategy
Murphy’s primary message was simple: the tactics used during Trump’s first presidency will not suffice this time around. Speaking to the DNC’s executive committee at a Hyatt Regency in Washington D.C., she emphasized that Democrats must avoid focusing on every scandal or outrage associated with Trump. Instead, the party needs to address issues that matter most to voters—namely, their financial well-being.
“The 2025 playbook cannot be the 2017 playbook,” Murphy stated. Her analysis showed that voters are less concerned about Trump’s Cabinet picks or his disregard for norms and more focused on pocketbook issues. This insight highlights a need for Democrats to recalibrate their messaging to resonate with the economic concerns of everyday Americans.
Understanding Trump’s Popularity and Economic Appeal
Murphy pointed out that Trump remains a polarizing figure, yet his economic policies continue to win over a significant portion of the electorate. As he prepares to take office for a second term, Trump enters the presidency more popular than he was at the start of his first term—although his favorability still lags behind that of President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama at their respective inaugurations.
According to Murphy, Trump’s ability to frame himself as a
champion of economic growth has been his strongest asset. Many voters are willing to overlook his controversial behavior if they believe his policies will reduce their living costs. “These voters are saying, ‘I will give him a pass on the outrageous if my costs come down,’” she explained.
This sentiment has made it increasingly difficult for Democrats to compete, particularly among working-class voters who have steadily drifted away from the party over recent election cycles.
Reconnecting with Key Democratic Voter Bases
Murphy’s analysis also revealed troubling trends within the Democratic Party’s core voter groups. Young people, Black voters, and Latinos—a vital part of the Democratic base—have been less enthusiastic about the party in recent years. While high inflation and rising prices played a role in their discontent during the last election, Murphy argued that these issues only scratched the surface.
“For young people and voters of color, institutions have failed them,” she said. “They may not embrace Trump for wanting to dismantle these institutions, but they certainly don’t hold it against him.”
This underscores a growing disillusionment among these groups, many of whom feel that traditional Democratic policies have not addressed their concerns.
Avoiding the “Hall Monitor” Trap
One of Murphy’s most striking warnings was about how Democrats frame their criticisms of Trump. She cautioned against focusing too heavily on his violations of norms and decorum. While these issues may resonate with Democratic donors and primary voters, they often fail to connect with the broader electorate.
“Norms have not worked for them, and so we certainly shouldn’t ask them to clutch their pearls,” Murphy remarked. “We risk sounding like the hall monitors.”
This critique suggests that Democrats must find ways to address Trump’s actions without appearing out of touch or overly focused on abstract principles. Instead, the party should concentrate on how Trump’s policies directly impact voters’ lives.
A New Message: Challenging Trump on Economic Promises
Murphy also outlined a strategy for Democrats to challenge Trump’s economic agenda. She argued that the party should focus on exposing the potential consequences of Trump’s policies, such as tax cuts for the wealthy, broad-based tariffs, and corporate giveaways. By highlighting how these initiatives could lead to higher costs for ordinary Americans, Democrats could regain credibility on economic issues.
“This is about holding Trump accountable for his promises and showing voters that his policies are not in their best interests,” Murphy said.
The Path Forward for Democrats
Murphy’s presentation is a call to action for the Democratic Party. As Trump’s second term looms, Democrats face a critical test: can they adapt their strategies to address the evolving concerns of voters?
Her advice suggests that success will require a sharp focus on economic messaging, a commitment to rebuilding trust with key voter groups, and a willingness to break away from outdated tactics. By embracing this new approach, Democrats have an opportunity to reclaim their position as a party that champions the needs of all Americans.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What was the main message of Molly Murphy’s speech to the DNC?
Molly Murphy emphasized that Democrats need to adopt a new strategy for countering Trump’s presidency. She urged the party to focus on economic issues rather than dwelling on Trump’s scandals or violations of norms.
2. Why is Trump’s economic message resonating with voters?
Trump’s handling of the economy has been a key strength for him. Many voters believe his policies will lower their costs, making them more likely to overlook his controversial behavior.
3. What challenges are Democrats facing with their voter base?
The Democratic Party is struggling to retain support from young people, Black voters, and Latinos. Disillusionment with institutions and dissatisfaction with the party’s response to economic challenges have contributed to this trend.
4. How can Democrats counter Trump’s economic policies?
Democrats can challenge Trump by exposing the potential downsides of his policies, such as tax cuts for the wealthy and tariffs that may lead to higher consumer costs. They need to emphasize how these policies hurt ordinary Americans.
5. What changes did Murphy recommend for the Democratic Party’s messaging?
Murphy advised Democrats to focus on pocketbook issues, avoid overemphasizing Trump’s norm violations, and connect with voters by addressing their immediate economic concerns.
By following these strategies, the Democratic Party can position itself as a stronger alternative to Trump in the years ahead.