In anticipation of Donald Trump’s second inauguration as president, a significant discussion is unfolding among prominent Democrats regarding the possibility of collaborating with the new administration. Although Trump has yet to officially take office, Democrats are grappling with a strategic question that could shape party dynamics: Is there potential for cooperation, or is a more oppositional stance warranted?
The answer to this question varies depending on who you ask. As the inauguration approaches, some Democratic Congress members have indicated a willingness to find common ground, particularly concerning Trump’s Cabinet selections. Governors from traditionally Democratic states, including New Jersey and Maryland, where Trump found surprising electoral support, have expressed a pragmatic approach to setting aside political resistance in favor of advancing state priorities. Additionally, notable figures like Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania have made the effort to meet with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate, signaling a desire to engage with the incoming administration.
This openness to collaboration, however, presents dilemmas for the Democratic Party. They have long labeled Trump as a significant threat to democratic structure and processes. Facing the truth of a narrow popular vote loss and a loyal Republican majority in Congress, Democrats must reconcile their previous stance against Trump with the current political landscape that suggests potential opportunities for bipartisan efforts.
Despite some visible receptivity among elected officials, influential Democrats, tasked with leading the party and electoral strategies, are cautious about proactively seeking opportunities for collaboration. Figures such as Shasti Conrad, chair of the Washington Democratic Party, have voiced concern that engagement with Trump may dilute their underlying objective of securing more victories for Democrats.
This balancing act between resistance and collaboration is not new for Democrats. Following Trump’s first election in 2016, many House Democrats chose to boycott his inauguration, while party leaders argued for the necessity of seeking common ground. Now, the situation has evolved, with Trump returning to office amidst a Republican majority capable of advancing the administration’s agenda, which includes contentious policies like mass deportations and potentially dismantling key initiatives from the Biden administration.
A recent CNN poll indicates that as of Trump’s transition period, a majority of Americans expressed approval of his management of the presidential transfer and held optimistic views about his potential performance as president. Democrats are betting that as Trump implements his agenda, public sentiment may shift against him—this skepticism underlines their strategy for the coming months.
Immigration has emerged as a noteworthy area for potential bipartisan efforts, illustrated by House Democrats voting alongside Republicans to promote the Laken Riley Act. Senators like Fetterman and Ruben Gallego have also co-sponsored this legislative measure. However, even beyond Capitol Hill, local leaders, including New York City Mayor Eric Adams, are prioritizing their constituents over partisan conflicts with the White House.
Across the country, various Democratic governors have articulated their priorities that revolve around their states rather than opposing the presidential office. Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey asserted his commitment to working with the administration on aligned priorities while promising to uphold New Jersey’s values against any potential threats. Similarly, Governor Gretchen Whitmer from Michigan has indicated a preference for collaboration over confrontation, emphasizing her goal of constructive engagement.
Contrastingly, some governors are taking a more adversarial stance. California’s Governor Gavin Newsom has proactively sought to protect California’s values in the face of Trump’s policies by calling a special legislative session. At the same time, Democratic leaders are recognizing that party unity requires strategic decision-making regarding which battles to engage in against the incoming administration.
In town halls and political gatherings, candidates vying for leadership roles within the Democratic National Committee have voiced their opinions on the approach that should be taken towards the new administration. Overall, the current conversations within the Democratic Party reflect the ongoing struggle to navigate political realities, determine the best path forward, and ultimately protect and promote the core values of the party in an increasingly polarized political environment. As they prepare for another term with Trump, these dynamics will be critical to shaping the future of the Democratic Party in the coming years.
