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Ex-GOP Rep. On Democrats: 'This Is What A Wave Feels Like' | The Last Word | MSNBC In this compelling episode of "The Last Word" on MSNBC, former GOP Rep. David Jolly discusses the significant impact of the 2017 election results, emphasizing how they symbolize a Democratic wave, prompted largely by the presidency of Donald Trump. Jolly reflects on both New Jersey and Virginia's election outcomes, where Democrats showcased a robust performance, suggesting that these results could signal political shifts heading into the 2018 midterms.
Key Insights:
- Election Context: Jolly describes the elections as historic, noting that New Jersey's newly elected governor, Phil Murphy, represents a defiance against the failing leadership of Chris Christie, who sadly holds the title of the least popular governor in America. His administration's legacy is marred by scandals and incompetence, especially notable during his support for Trump's presidency.
- Democratic Momentum: Jolly argues that Democrats are beginning to reclaim areas traditionally dominated by Republicans, highlighting that the election results demonstrate a decisive rejection of the Republican party's accommodating stances on white nationalism and controversial policies pushed by Trump. He states, “Democrats won tonight because Donald Trump is president,” implying that this election cycle has engaged voters disenchanted with current Republican policies.
- Voter Engagement and Strategy: Crystal Ball, a former congressional candidate, points out the importance of grassroots activism and competitive strategy across various districts. The Democrats’ ability to engage diverse candidates led to higher results and showed that even previously considered tough races can be won through local empowerment and addressing constituency needs.
- Healthcare as a Pivotal Issue: A recurring theme throughout the discussion is that health care remains a central concern for voters going into the 2018 elections. Jolly and Ball stress that candidates need to focus on substantive policies that prioritize the welfare of the populace rather than resorting to xenophobia or division, which left voters uninspired.
- National Implications: The election outcomes are seen as a litmus test for upcoming elections, suggesting that Republicans may struggle in the face of an energized Democratic base. The narrative suggests that without a course correction, the GOP risks losing control of both the House and Senate.
Community Discussion:
What do you think about the implications of past election strategies on current political dynamics? Have you seen similar trends in your local elections? Share your views below! For further reading, check out our threads on voter engagement strategies and the role of health care in political campaigns. Let's delve deep into the discussions surrounding these crucial elections and where they lead us!