Democratic leaders need a new way forward | Opinion
For too many years, the Democratic Party has questioned hard-working Americans about their commitment and loyalty to our party. We’ve demonized those who have climbed the economic ladder of capitalism, and we’ve ostracized those who struggle in poverty.
The problem with the Democratic Party isn’t that we’re unfit to lead. The problem is that we’re refusing to channel who we truly are to make a positive impact for everyone.
This is the party of Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson and Barack Obama—leaders who believed in justice, opportunity and the power of everyday Americans to shape a better nation.
As leaders, they took action to create pathways for everyone to achieve the American dream. They rebuilt our infrastructure, integrated our schools, made healthcare accessible and expanded civil rights to include all Americans.
They bent the arc of government to implement a vision that uplifted every American, no matter their background or economic status.
Somewhere along the way, we allowed paid commentators, pollsters and losing consultants to steer us off course,..away from the hard work of local, door-to-door, listening and community building.
As a result, we’ve lost the presidential election and others across the board, sacrificing the trust of the people and weakening our standing. But we know this isn’t who we are.
To support qualified candidates in the future, like Vice President Kamala Harris, we need to work at the grassroots level to plant the seeds and grow our base to be open to accepting realistic boundaries and willing to coalesce to win for all Americans.
It’s time we stop politicizing and demonizing. It’s time we start walking, stop the focus on talking, and focus on hearing the people. We must celebrate the value of hard work, ambition and success. This party offers a home for all, regardless of their wealth or station in life.
And we must welcome back our Republican and independent brothers and sisters who have felt forced away. We must empower those who feel hopeless, who have lost faith in finding a way up because they no longer see a place for themselves here. It’s time to make room for all who want to work toward a better future.
True leadership isn’t about talking louder; it’s about listening more deeply. We owe it to the people who have always stood by us—the street sweepers, the teachers, the farmers, the successful entrepreneurs and everyone who works hard to build their community and this country.
As Democrats, it’s time to stop lying to ourselves and speak truth to ourselves. It’s okay to make a dollar the right way. There’s no shame in grinding and sweating to earn a good living.
We should embrace the value of hard work and recognize it as the bedrock of a strong nation.
To move forward, Democratic leaders must ground ourselves in loyalty, truth and love—in that order. Loyalty to our fellow Americans and to the challenges they face each day.
Truth in our words, our actions and our intentions. And, finally, love—love for each individual, whether we agree with them or not.
It’s time to clean house and rebuild on these principles. Loyalty, truth and love—these values will guide us as we reclaim our purpose and create meaningful change.
This is a new path rooted in respect, unity and a commitment to every American who believes in us. This party belongs to the people who have always stood by us.
Let’s reclaim our mission, refocus on what truly matters and remember that real progress comes from loyalty, truth , and a willingness to listen to the people. This is blueprint for a new way forward.
Kionne L. McGhee is a Democrat and .a Miami-Dade commissioner representing District 9.
