Iowa Democrats look to rebuild behind economic message [View all]

To be successful in 2018 and beyond, the Iowa Democratic Party must sharpen its focus on the economy and make its policies and political philosophy relevant to rural and working-class Iowans.

That’s the growing consensus from longtime party leaders and a new generation of activists seeking to rebuild the state party after six years of mounting defeats that culminated with the loss of the state Senate in 2016.

“I just don’t think that enough focus was paid to economic issues,” said U.S Rep. Dave Loebsack. “Yes, we are a party that is for equality; yes, we are a party that wants comprehensive immigration reform; yes, we are a party that represents a lot of different, diverse groups. But we’re also a party that represents economic opportunity.”

The shift in focus is seen as critical for a party that has all but bottomed out in the state.

Read more: http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2016/12/22/iowa-democrats-look-rebuild-behind-economic-message/95749538/