By Michael Kelman Portney

Introduction

In the current political landscape, the United States finds itself at a crossroads. The chaotic and self-destructive tendencies of the GOP have been laid bare, dragging the country into crisis after crisis. Yet, amidst this turmoil, Democrats face a critical question: why expend energy fighting every battle when the ultimate war is about securing the next election? This article explores why Democrats must prioritize fair elections and long-term strategies over engaging in every skirmish.

Democrats Are Fighting Too Many Battles

Historically, Democrats have positioned themselves as the defenders of diverse groups and small populations, standing against GOP overreach. This noble endeavor, however, has often led them to spread their resources too thin. By engaging in numerous culture wars and legislative battles, Democrats risk losing sight of the broader, more decisive victory—the preservation of democracy itself. The challenge lies in balancing the defense of minority rights with the need to secure a sustainable political future.

GOP's Mastery of Narrative Control

The GOP has excelled in the art of narrative control, crafting campaigns that thrive on fear and division rather than solutions. Their strategy involves pointing fingers and amplifying fear, effectively controlling the political discourse. In contrast, Democrats often find themselves on the defensive, countering baseless claims with fact-checks and moral appeals. This approach, while intellectually satisfying, fails to capture the hearts of voters. Elections are not won through debates but through the control of narratives.

Let Them Hang Themselves

Democrats can learn from the GOP's playbook by allowing their opposition to self-destruct. Instead of mitigating every Republican disaster, Democrats should let the GOP's incompetence speak for itself. Whether it's threatening economic stability by refusing to raise the debt ceiling or nominating unserious candidates, Democrats should focus on building a cohesive narrative about the recklessness of the GOP. Highlighting how Republicans prioritize donors and culture wars over the well-being of ordinary Americans can be a powerful strategy.

The Key: Don’t Say Anything Stupid

As the GOP spirals further into chaos, Democrats must remain laser-focused on ensuring the next election is free and fair. This requires avoiding infighting and resisting the temptation to engage in every hot-button issue. Sticking to a single, unifying message is crucial. Additionally, Democrats must avoid giving Republicans ammunition by catering to small but vocal constituencies in ways that alienate the majority. Protecting vulnerable groups is essential, but it will only be effective if Democrats win. A strategy that appeals to the majority without sacrificing core values is necessary.

The Majority Is the Path to Protecting Minorities

To safeguard the rights of small populations and marginalized groups, Democrats need to focus on issues that matter most to the majority: economic stability, healthcare access, and the preservation of democratic norms. By securing power through a broad coalition, Democrats can enact meaningful protections for everyone—not just their base. The current GOP is a train wreck in slow motion, and Democrats don't need to throw themselves onto the tracks to stop it. Instead, they should ensure the audience is watching, taking notes, and ready to vote for change. This involves investing in voter education, ensuring access to polling places, and doubling down on election integrity initiatives.

The Long Game

While it may be tempting to fight every battle, Democrats must resist this urge. The only battle that truly matters now is the one for the soul of democracy. Let the GOP run wild, alienating moderates and independents, and showcasing their worst instincts. The Democrats' job isn't to stop them; it's to remind Americans, every step of the way, who allowed this chaos to unfold and why. The next election isn't just about winning—it's about survival. Democrats must stop treating it like a debate and start treating it like a narrative war. Let the GOP write their own obituary, but ensure everyone is paying attention.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the importance of narrative control cannot be overstated. Democrats must focus on the long-term goal of securing fair elections and preserving democracy. By prioritizing a cohesive narrative and building a broad coalition, they can protect the rights of minorities while appealing to the majority. The next election is a pivotal moment in American history, and Democrats must rise to the occasion by focusing on the long game. The future of democracy depends on it.