On Nov. 9, the day after the midterm elections, Americans will wake up to one of two realities. One may well be the beginning of the end of functioning government and fundamental constitutional rights. The other could result in continued progress on goals such as stronger background checks, lower prices for prescription medication and relief for student loan debts. Either one is possible — and depends on what Democrats do leading up to Election Day.
There are about five months before the midterms, and anyone who has worked on a political campaign understands that time frame is an eternity. Right now, primary elections are deciding who will be on the ballot in November; campaigns are intensifying outreach efforts, and political ads are filling TV screens and airways. There is much in flux; candidates who appear to be front-runners may not be months from now.
Democrats in particular should not take anything for granted. In addition to changing their approach to messaging and passing legislation that benefits working families, Democrats should invest in a vigorous operation to register and educate as many young voters as possible. While not a guarantee for victory in November, it could be one of the best strategies to ensure that democracy survives.
