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Rep. Greg Casar, D-Texas, newly elected chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, is calling for a dramatic course correction within the Democratic Party after its defeat in the 2024 presidential election.
In a candid interview with NBC News, Casar emphasized the need for Democrats to return to their roots as champions of the working class, focusing on core economic issues while steering clear of cultural “preachiness.”
Casar, 35, argued that the party’s recent loss to President-elect Donald Trump was avoidable, blaming it on a disconnect between Democratic leaders and the economic concerns of everyday Americans. He stressed that the party must shift from internal ideological battles to prioritizing voter needs like fair wages, health care access, and retirement security.
“We have to put winning way above being right,” Casar said. “We can’t afford to alienate working-class voters by being seen as disconnected from their struggles.”
Economic Populism as the Party’s Core
Casar believes the key to Democratic resurgence lies in sharpening the contrast with Republicans on economic issues. He suggested the GOP’s focus on culture wars serves as a distraction from policies favoring the wealthy. “A trans person didn’t deny your health insurance claim, a big corporation did — with Republican help,” Casar said, underscoring the need to refocus on economic injustices.
He called for shedding the party’s “corporate elements” to better align with the economic interests of voters, predicting that Trump’s tax policies will provide opportunities to highlight the differences between the parties.
Balancing Social Leadership with Cultural Realities
Acknowledging that the median voter may lean more culturally conservative than the party, Casar emphasized the importance of leading on social issues without alienating the electorate. “We should lead the country, but never be more than an arm’s length ahead,” he said, advocating for a measured approach to progressive social policies.
Lessons from 2024: A Need for Change at the Top
Reflecting on Vice President Kamala Harris’ defeat, Casar suggested the loss stemmed from broader party branding issues rather than campaign missteps. He also criticized President Joe Biden’s decision to run for re-election, noting it was evident early on that he should have stepped aside.
Casar’s vision marks a pivot toward unifying Democrats across geographic, racial, and ideological lines. “The Democratic Party, at its best, can be the party of everyday people,” he said. “We have to make sure we’re no longer seen as preachy or disconnected.”
As the first Texan to lead the Progressive Caucus, Casar brings a unique perspective from a traditionally conservative state, emphasizing that winning is crucial to ensuring the protection of vulnerable communities. “Coming from Texas, I know what the cost is of losing,” he said.
Casar’s leadership could signal a shift toward a more populist, economically focused Democratic Party as it seeks to rebuild after a stinging defeat.
