The Science of Politics The future of the democratic party
Oct 2, 2025
Join journalist Matt Iglesias and political scientist Stephen Tellis as they dive into the Democratic Party's challenges and possible futures. They tackle whether moderating ideological stances could win back disenchanted voters and discuss the potential of an 'abundance' agenda focused on local impacts. Iglesias highlights the pressure of factional dynamics, while Tellis explores how the conservative legal movement is reshaping executive power. The conversation navigates the path toward a successful Democratic reset by 2028, considering pivotal strategy shifts.
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Education Shift From Obama To Biden
- Matthew Iglesias contrasts Obama's active education agenda with Biden's return to interest-group baseline.
- He notes education lost issue ownership under Biden and became politically squandered.
Costly Signals Built Moderate Credibility
- Stephen Tellis locates ed reform as a symbol of moderate governing identity that signaled credibility.
- He warns moderates now lack costly signals that prove they are distinct and willing to take heat.
Don't Assume Midterm Rebounds Without Action
- Matt Grossmann recommends not relying solely on historical midterm rebound expectations.
- Matthew Iglesias advises parties must actively change after losses rather than assume automatic recovery.