‘We Need To Jump On That’: Democrats Will Push This Huge Issue Next

Democrats are gearing up to make cost-of-living issues a central focus ahead of next year’s midterm elections, according to multiple recent polls. While voters consistently rank inflation and economic concerns as top priorities, surveys show that Republicans still hold a slight edge on economic trust, even amid ongoing government shutdowns. The challenge for Democrats, per the polling, is translating policy actions on health care and affordability into broader confidence among voters, as per Politico.

Recent data highlights a persistent disconnect for the party. An Economist/YouGov survey of 1,648 Americans found that 41 percent hold the GOP accountable for the ongoing federal government shutdown, compared to 30 percent who blame Democrats. Similarly, a CBS News/YouGov poll reported 39 percent of respondents faulted Republicans, versus 30 percent for Democrats, with the remainder sharing responsibility between the two parties. Despite this, Democrats trail the GOP by four points on which party is more trusted to handle the economy.

This polling dynamic has informed Democratic strategy as the party emphasizes its opposition to rising health care costs. Lawmakers are particularly focused on the upcoming expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies, which could cause premiums to rise for millions of Americans. According to Democratic officials, the goal is to leverage this issue to highlight their commitment to affordability while also addressing broader economic concerns.

Focusing On Cost-of-living Issues As A Key Strategy

Democratic candidates are preparing to expand messaging around cost-of-living concerns, signaling a sustained effort beyond health care. State and federal lawmakers have framed the shutdown and related negotiations as a platform to address consumer costs, including utilities and other essential expenses. Per interviews with congressional candidates, Democrats believe that highlighting affordability can help regain working-class voters who have shifted toward the GOP in recent cycles.

Party members are also emphasizing visibility and voter engagement. According to Democrats’ national campaign operations, a digital and billboard ad campaign has been launched to alert voters about pending premium increases. Candidates from across the country starting from a firefighter running in Pennsylvania to a waitress seeking a House seat in Wisconsin, are being positioned to underscore the party’s connection to working-class Americans.

Still, the challenge remains to convince voters that policy actions on specific issues like health care translate into effective economic leadership. While shutdowns provide some leverage in negotiations, surveys indicate that a substantial share of Americans expects Democrats to compromise to reopen the government. A Harvard/Harris poll showed nearly two-thirds of respondents felt Democrats should end the shutdown, while a Navigator Research survey reflected a narrower but similar sentiment.

Democrats, as seen in California and across the country, maintain that maintaining a firm stance can reinforce their broader message on affordability and consumer protection. Representative Laura Gillen (D-N.Y.) described the approach as “an important step” toward convincing voters that the party can tackle rising costs. Similarly, Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) emphasized the importance of consistent messaging to ensure voters recognize Democrats as a “viable alternative” on economic issues and said, “I see an opening here. … And we need to jump on that and just really focus and repeat over and over and over that we Democrats are interested in bringing costs down.”