The Democratic Party has changed so much that some longtime members are reconsidering their affiliation.
Former Clinton pollster Doug Schoen voiced his concerns on Fox News after former President Donald Trump’s well-received address to Congress. He noted that Democrats refusing to stand for crime victims and a young cancer survivor might push more members, including Sen. John Fetterman, to leave the party.
“This isn’t the party of JFK or Bill Clinton. Moderates aren’t welcome,” Schoen said. While he disagrees with some of Trump’s policies, he criticized Democrats for failing to offer real solutions on border security, inflation, and crime, making them increasingly irrelevant.
Polling showed Trump’s speech resonated with many Americans. A CBS News/YouGov survey found 76% of viewers approved, with 68% calling it “hopeful” and many describing it as “presidential” and “inspiring.” Despite a negative media lead-up, the speech appealed beyond Trump’s base, with only 51% of viewers identifying as Republicans.
Trump also received praise for his speech, with Speaker Mike Johnson calling it a “bold, optimistic vision” and Sen. Ted Cruz saying it was “by far his best.”
