Think Tank Advises Democrats to Avoid Certain Words and Phrases

The "Third Way" Memo

• 💡 A memo from the think tank Third Way suggests Democratic lawmakers should avoid using 45 specific words or phrases.
• 🎯 These terms are believed to alienate average voters and hinder connection with a broader electorate.
• 🔑 Examples of words to avoid include: "birthing person," "Latinx," "allyship," "safe space," and "cultural appropriation."

Language as Part of a Larger Problem

• 🧠 While language is a factor, it's a mistake to focus solely on rhetoric, according to Julian Zelizer.
• 📊 The basic agenda and strategy of the party are equally, if not more, important than the specific words used.
• ⚠️ Democrats must be careful not to alienate parts of their coalition while trying to appeal to others.

Historical Party Rebuilding

• 🚀 Parties can indeed dig themselves out of dark moments while in the minority and behind in polls and fundraising.
• 📈 Examples include Republicans rebuilding after the 1964 election and Democrats after the 1988 election.
• ⏳ This rebuilding process can take time, with significant shifts often occurring over several election cycles.

The Role of Midterm Elections

• 🎯 Historically, midterm elections are often a referendum on the incumbent President, rather than solely on the opposition party.
• 🗣️ Democrats can position themselves effectively against President Trump without a singular leader emerging before the midterms.
• 🔑 A clear party leader is typically solidified after primaries and caucuses, and will be crucial for future elections like 2028.