The democrats need a concrete governing agenda

Other proposals should establish state-run "choice compacts" that allow states to opt into different coverage models-regulated private competition, a public option, or spending growth - so long as they meet common national coverage targets for everyone. Capping out-of-pocket costs, especially for drugs and premiums, and continuing to protect coverage for preexisting conditions, are critical.

Climate change

Democrats must propose creating an energy race-to-the-top agreement among states. Any state that voluntarily meets a mutually agreed carbon-intensity benchmark unlocks automatic tax incentives for clean manufacturing and local fossil fuel job transition funds. While only a few red states deny the severity of climate change, from which millions of Americans are suffering, they cannot refuse such an economic boost.

Conservative states can prioritize nuclear energy, carbon capture, and small modular reactors, while progressive states can lean into renewables, and both report standardized emissions data dashboards. Investing in home energy efficiency, expanding clean energy jobs by offering subsidies to solar and wind users, and supporting farmers and small towns in adapting to climate impacts will all help lower utility bills, a current significant concern.

Mitigating systemic racism

The Democrats must develop formulas that target both historically discriminated groups and persistently disadvantaged zip codes, blending race-conscious and race-neutral criteria to broaden buy-in programs in policing and housing lending. Community-based violence-reduction and mental health services must be expanded, as well as investment in disadvantaged neighborhoods and schools across all races. The Democrats must intervene to narrow racial gaps, strengthen voting rights, enforce anti-discrimination policies, and be ready to encounter any effort by Trump to interfere in the election.

Trump's chaotic, counterproductive domestic and foreign policy and his dimming popularity give the Democrats a definite advantage in the mid-term election. That, however, will not be enough to win the election, especially in the House.

The Democrats must listen carefully to the public's needs for economic stability and a better, more prosperous, and secure future, and rebuild trust in government, which Trump has badly squandered.