Key Takeaways:
– The 2024 election pivoted on the public appeal to dismantle the neoliberal system implemented since 1981.
– Voters prioritized a return to pre-Reagan jobs where a single income could sustain households.
– Trump and Bernie Sanders initially rallied against neoliberalism in 2016, stirring interest from masses.
– Voters overlooked possible negative outcomes, hoping for better-paying jobs with the end of neoliberalism.
– President Biden’s attempts to retract neoliberalism, launch new tariffs, increase taxes on the super-rich, and mitigate border issues went unnoticed due to insufficient communication.
– Democrats must openly reject neoliberalism, support FDR’s system, and broadly communicate their stance to regain solid footing in politics.
The Plot of 2024 Elections Unfolds
Dismantling the neoliberal system was the driving force behind the 2024 elections, contrary to early predictions that centered on resisting a potentially alarming swing towards fascism. Political experts and news media assumed that Donald Trump’s alignment with totalitarian practices and the resultant threat to democracy would define the primary discourse.
How Voters Have Redefined the ‘System’
In this case, the ‘system’ voters wished to overturn wasn’t democracy itself, but rather the neoliberal structure Ronald Reagan initiated in 1981. This financial framework, further cemented by subsequent presidents, displaced Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal policies.
Trump, Sanders and the Rise Against Neoliberalism
Neoliberalism, characterized by open borders, free trade, reduced taxes, and limited union power, proved hugely unpopular with the public. As previously discussed, Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump were the first major party candidates to challenge neoliberalism. This move caught the nation’s attention and led to endorsements from figures as diverse as Joe Rogan and Howard Stern.
The Impact of Neoliberalism on Job Market
Despite this, the neoliberal machine was still operating at full speed, leading to job outsourcing, shrinking middle class, and growing wealth disparity. Unions were undermined, productive employment opportunities dwindled, effective factories were outsourced, and exorbitant wealth resided at the upper echelons of society.
Biden Efforts: Right Steps, Wrong Outreach
In a surprising turn, President Joe Biden emerged as the first president since Jimmy Carter to renounce neoliberalism. Indeed, Biden had increased taxes for corporations and billionaires, continued most of Trump’s tariffs, and announced extensive plans to reform immigration policy. He even made history as the first president to walk a picket line. However, these efforts largely went unnoticed due to inadequate communication, leading to untapped voter support.
Solving the Communication Gap for Political Wins
A vital lesson for Democrats is that effective governance must be matched by awareness creation. Trump, despite rampant criticism, managed to convince the average American of his commitment to economic recovery. This was predominantly achieved through his persistent public presence. For Democrats to reclaim power, it is critical they not only reject neoliberalism but also ensure this stance is well-understood by voters.
Ousting Neoliberalism: A Fundamental Shift in Democratic Politics
Recognizing the winds of change in America should prompt the Democrats to adopt a good part of President Joe Biden’s approach. They should openly disavow neoliberalism, reinstate FDR’s system, create jobs domestically, limit illegal immigration, fortify union power, and increase taxes on the affluent sector.
From Strategy to Action: Marshalling a New Era
The key to successful political repositioning lies in broad communication of party beliefs. If Democrats can successfully articulate their stance, it can pave the way for a new era in American politics. The implementation of this strategy may also attract attention to urgent yet complex issues like democracy protection, climate change action, healthcare expansion, educational improvements, housing support, and equal opportunities. Democrats are tasked to not only transform American politics but also to ensure the transformation is evident to all voters.