Imitating MAGA populism is a losing strategy for Democrats

The Hill 

" Most importantly, a pluralist agenda doesn’t treat voters as angry mobs to be mobilized but as civic equals to be empowered."

"In their quest to win back working-class voters and compete in battleground states, many Democrats have convinced themselves that the best way to beat Trumpism is to copy it — at least on economics. The new playbook is built around economic populism: tariffs, industrial policy, big government checks, and a willingness to bash corporations, billionaires, and free markets in the same breath. But while this might make for good focus group fodder, it’s a long-term loser — for the Democratic Party, and for American democracy.

"MAGA populism isn’t just about economic pain; it’s about channeling that pain into resentment, isolation and authoritarian politics. When Democrats try to meet that energy with their own brand of populism — whether from the progressive left or the blue-collar center — they validate the frame that all of America’s problems are caused by “them” — elites, foreigners, corporations or coastal urbanites. This style of politics undermines democratic institutions, reduces trust in pluralistic compromise and feeds a dangerous cycle of permanent grievance.

"Instead of competing with President Trump on who can rage louder against the machine, Democrats should offer an alternative vision rooted in civic renewal, economic dignity and democratic accountability. That means rejecting both laissez-faire complacency and populist demagoguery.

"There is a third way — and it’s not centrism for its own sake. It’s pluralism: the idea that the best way to rebuild trust in American democracy is not by consolidating power, but by decentralizing it; not by punishing “bad guys,” but by empowering citizens; not by demonizing markets, but by making them work better for everyone.

"A pluralist economic agenda would emphasize regional development over Beltway industrial policy deals. It would strengthen local entrepreneurship and cooperative ownership instead of doubling down on megaproject subsidies. It would treat tax reform as a civic obligation, not a populist weapon. And it would champion economic inclusion —   especially for those left behind — without scapegoating those who succeed." . . .