If the Democrats are to win in 2020, they must have a clear, brief program and they must remain united. But their first mission must be to explain to the American public what Democratic Socialism means. It is clear that Trump is going to make railing against “socialism” the foundation of his reelection campaign. He will have both the fact that Americans have never had democratic socialist parties and the huge cultural investment in the American belief in rugged individualism on his side. Democrats must convince the American public of the fact that social welfare programs do not a socialist country make, something Europeans take for granted. This will not be an easy task, but it can be accomplished by emphasizing four, and no more than four, basic programs.
The first is universal health care. Americans understand Medicare, and expanding coverage to all is a concept that most support. It makes sense economically, with the potential to lower health care costs, provide workers with employment mobility, relieve employers of the burden of providing health insurance, and eliminate one of the major causes of bankruptcy. And it the moral thing to do. It is an issue that can attract the ever growing Independent vote.
The second is the adoption of a much more progressive tax code, with significantly higher rates of taxation on the wealthy. A return to rates of even 50 to 60 percent on the top margins would begin to address the issue of income inequality in America, and provide funds for programs like universal health care. And like universal health care, it is a program Americans can understand and support.
Third would be a bold program to support alternatives to fossil fuels. IT does not have to be as sweeping as the proposal put forward by Alexandria Casio-Cortez, but it must be aggressive. Climate change is real, and American industry is well aware of the fact, as is the military and many branches of the federal government. It is a concept that can appeal to young independents.
Fourth, Democrats need to advocate for comprehensive immigration reform that provides for the Dreamers and allows the 12 million illegals here at least a path to permanent residency. It also must provide for stricter border control measures–ones that will work, not provide a symbol. Such a program will do much to undercut another of Trump’s likely appeals.
Even with such a platform, Democrats MUST remain united. The young Turks should be encouraged to suggest new, even radical, concepts. That is what youth does best. But all Democrats must unite behind both program and candidates if they wish to win in 2020. Refusing to support a majority position or candidate, or providing only lukewarm support, will guarantee defeat. We have been down that road to often since 2000, with results that have placed our society in a dire position.
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