To defeat Trumpism, Democrats must speak the language of pain [View all]

To defeat Trumpism, Democrats must speak the language of pain
Effective political messaging targets — and wins — the heart

By Chauncey DeVega
Senior Writer
Published August 21, 2025 6:45AM (EDT)


(Salon) Across the country, many Americans are screaming in frustration: “The rent is too high.” From Boston to New York to Florida to Michigan to California, affordable housing is increasingly difficult to find. The U.S. is in a housing crisis; rents keep rising while incomes stagnate or fall. Since 2019, home prices have surged by 60%.

Recent polls have shown the depth and breadth of economic anxiety and anger Americans are feeling about the economy. According to YouGov, for the week ending Aug. 16, 53% of Americans believe that the economy is getting worse. A majority believe the country and the economy are headed in the wrong direction under President Donald Trump’s leadership. Inflation is causing the price of many basic food and household goods to increase; in July, the consumer price index rose by 2.7%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This increase in costs can be attributed, at least in part, to Trump’s tariffs.

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Trump’s Big Vile Bill is in the process of slashing trillions from the social safety net, including Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and other programs that support vulnerable communities. The goal? More money for the richest Americans and corporations. As winter approaches, the legislation will also cause an increase in utility bills.

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But Democrats must learn to do better at speaking the language of pain. They need a unified message that centers on empathy — and bold policies. It should be tailored to specific issues and as straightforward as this: “Donald Trump and Republicans are causing clear and direct harm to you, your loved ones and your community. Democrats will protect you and make your life and future much better. Trump and the Republicans are hurting you.” .......................(more)

https://www.salon.com/2025/08/21/to-defeat-trumpism-democrats-must-speak-the-language-of-pain/