I’m hopping on a plane to SoCal for the next few days to attend Human Rights Campaign events, but I wanted to share with you some of my joy, delight and thoughts on yesterday’s resounding election results.
Yup. I’m from Lehigh County and I’ve been watching all of the races, not just in Pennsylvania but nationwide. And strangely enough, this very small, otherwise completely inconsequential result is enormously important.
Finally, a burden feels a bit lighter. Momentum is the key - the pressure on the party is to maintain it, amplify it, and bring home victory over fascism in 2026.
The American people have spoken, tRump and his lapdogs will not be allowed to destroy our democracy. We need to maintain the impetus!
Rick Wilson (substack) said this morning that 3 democrats want to cross over to the GOP and open the government. WE MUST NOT DO THAT! Schumer and Jeffries have to hold the party together by standing firm.
That would be utterly insane. This is like you've got a royal flush and you fold! OK, royal flush is exaggerated, it's unbeatable, a full house maybe. You don't fold on a full house. You make incredible gains, humiliate the GOP and capitulate? Are these people as thick as Trump? You let Trump take away millions of Americans' health care because you just won? If they betray their voters like that, they're throwing away their advantage. Of course Schumer is behind it, it's him all over. The most charitable thing I can say about him is that he's defeatist. When you're in opposition you're supposed to oppose! There's a clue in the name! I have to wonder if he's not done sorry of fifth columnist. Get a bloody spine and DO YOUR JOB! That's to oppose Trump and the GOP at every turn, every opportunity you have.
Schumer has stood firm on the shutdown just like we demanded of him. The Democrats who have defected are John Fetterman, Catherine Cortez Masto, and Angus King.
You may not like Schumer, but you should at least acknowledge that he is holding the line now.
If you live in NH or MI, write your senators to tell them not to be fooled AGAIN (first time was when Dems caved back in March, which led to the big ugly bill after no allowance for negotiation)
Vickie, go to Substack, Rick Wilson “A Great Night….Don’t Blow It “, a 10 minute listen. In the meantime, I’m listening to it again to write down the names.
Fetterman (PA), Cortez Masto (NM) and Shaheen (NH) are the ones who folded at the beginning.
There was concern that Peters and Slotkin from MI, the other Senator from NH (I forget her name), Kelly (AZ), Welch (VT), and possibly one more were softening about opening up the government. But that was before the Democratic landslide last night.
It’s been sad and strange on every level. He is lost. We criticize Trump’s incapacitation. Fetterman gets a pass. Those of us in DC have a civil rights icon, Eleanor Holmes Norton, as our non-voting House delegate. She’s almost 90 and her staff and others know how she is unable to do this work effectively anymore. Yet she’s beloved. (Latest issue of NY Mag has story on aging pols and who we need..like NYC voted.)
One of my Senators is one of the three. I've sent messages and received a reply. We all know that the way normal government works is discussion and negotiation with the other party to come to agreement. Right now, the GOP has no idea how government works, it's all their way or they shut down everything. You have to meet the GOP as they are now, not hope for them to do the right thing, Senator.
Neither is the Occupation of Chicago. Same thing, different name, I guess, but my family and friends who are still there -- I'm a Chicago kid -- are furious, even those with Republican blood.
Virtually every county in Joisey went big-move toward the Dems...pronounced shifts in large Hispanic-voter areas, amongst other demographics. But, of course Nate Cohn and his "yes-but..." cohort held out for "tRump wasn't on the ballot, so low-information/low-involvement voters...yadda-yadda". Sorry, not sorry, Nate, there was an across-the-board move left, so suck it up, mate.
Not in Hunterdon county . But considering I’ve lived here for 30 years and we’ve only had Democrats running for anything local or county level for the last 5 years I guess I can’t be too disappointed.
I hope the DNC takes note of Mamdani's win and decides that more progressivism should be the new stance of the Democratic party. As in, affordable housing and healthcare for all, a higher minimum wage, higher taxes on the wealthy, and so on. Put the emphasis where it belongs: on the people, not on mega-donors.
My own feeling is that the Democrats should run people who are authentic leaders of their constituents, who will range from progressive NYC folks to more center left suburban moms in Loughton County, VA. It’s not a one size fits all. It’s about delivering the right local solutions to the people where they are.
I agree. However, for years, the Dems have been all about moving right. At this point, I think the DNC is collectively right of center. Center-left would be a significant improvement. But Progressive values are what the majority of the country embraces, whether that's generally acknowledged or not. I don’t see how affordable healthcare and housing, women's autonomy, more equality, a higher minimum wage, and making the wealthy pay their share---all basic Progressive values---would NOT help all constituents. The details and methods could be adjusted to best serve various districts and states.
Exactly! The dems have been going for corporate and billionaire money for decades and leaving the people behind...no more! We must hold their feet to the fire and tell them they work for US!
jfc, don't give him any ideas... there is truly nothing he will not do, nothing he will shrink at, up to and including murder, especially if you're poor fishermen on a boat, minding your own business and going about your life. No monument he won't destroy, no historical site he won't take a giant dump on, nothing he won't steal like the World Cup, no one he won't sell out or betray (like, everyone). And now he's feeling humiliated, so lord knows what he'll do to this country to give himself a happy.
Great roundup of Democratic victories, but I'd caution against over-interpreting these results or assuming they represent a durable shift.
We've seen this movie before—the euphoria after Obama's election in 2008 led to Democratic complacency, and we lost the House in 2010. Then after Biden's 2020 win, many assumed Trumpism was defeated, only to see Republicans gain ground in formerly purple states that are now solidly red (my own Iowa).
These wins provide momentum, joy and matter-- especially at the state and local level, but they won't stop Trump overnight—particularly in states that have shifted from purple to red over the past decade. Institutionalized MAGA has deep roots in state legislatures, governorships, and local offices across much of the country now.
Victory in scattered races is important for building bench strength. What are the lessens for middle America and red/purple states.. Otherwise we risk repeating the pattern of celebration followed by midterm collapse.
Building a deeper bench starting with down ballot elections is the only hope for sustained change. Texas Dems (Austinite here) failed this assignment doe the last 30 years and continue to pay the price. Repubs will fight tooth and nail with big money to hold on now that the see the resistance
Let's be honest about this: Obama himself destroyed Democratic momentum by acting like a Republican. Then Biden destroyed Democratic momentum by acting like a Republican. I said this at the time and I called repeatedly telling them to stop being goddamn turncoat sellouts.
We need NO MORE SELLOUTS.
Democrats have to govern like FDR Democrats if they want to win. Every time a Democrat acts like a Republican, losses follow.
Truman told us this way back when, but the goddamn sellout types like Obama and Biden will not listen.
Truman:
"I've seen it happen time after time. When the Democratic candidate allows himself to be put on the defensive and starts apologizing for the New Deal and the fair Deal, and says he really doesn't believe in them, he is sure to lose. The people don't want a phony Democrat. If it's a choice between a genuine Republican, and a Republican in Democratic clothing, the people will choose the genuine article, every time; that is, they will take a Republican before they will a phony Democrat, and I don't want any phony Democratic candidates in this campaign."
Truman also accurately described Republicans, who haven't changed:
"Republicans approve of the American farmer, but they are willing to help him go broke. They stand four-square for the American home — but not for housing. They are strong for labor — but they are stronger for restricting labor's rights. They favor minimum wage — the smaller the minimum wage the better. They endorse educational opportunity for all — but they won't spend money for teachers or for schools. They think modern medical care and hospitals are fine — for people who can afford them. They consider electrical power a great blessing — but only when the private power companies get their rake-off. They think American standard of living is a fine thing — so long as it doesn't spread to all the people. And they admire of Government of the United States so much that they would like to buy it.""
And as surface level as it sounds, seeing someone who loves life and people and smiles helps us have hope. The ugly grumpiness and hate of MAGAts in charge contributes to feeling glum. Mamdani has plans and good policy, builds coalitions and is positive. He is the future.
It was a very good night in our bluish municipality, where a multi-term Alderman was voted out and Dems swept the other important races, including for School Board.
Progressives had a great night in Colorado, too. All 4 progressive candidates won seats on the Aurora city council, knocking off 2 incumbents. In Denver, all 4 teachers union candidates won seats on the school board, despite being outspent by pro-charter school groups. Statewide, voters approved two measures to approved Prop MM which will raise taxes on those making $300K or more with the extra revenue going to pay for school meals. Prop LL will allow the state to keep all Prop MM revenue instead of returning excess funds to taxpayers under TABOR. My home state made me proud.
Wow, Colorado has been voting blue for awhile, but it looks like it's joined the club of reliable Blue states like Illinois. We need to conquer all the scenic states!
Colorado was very red when I was growing up, with the Denver, Boulder, and Pueblo being reliably blue. Even though the governor was a Dem from 1975-1999 and Dems had both Senate seats for a time, the legislature was red save for the 1975-76 session. Things started to change when the "Group of Four," democratic millionaires including Tim Gill, started to get involved. The state started moving reliably blue in 2002.
Love it Jay!!!!,Absolutely thrilled at all our wins and yet we can't become complacent. Last night Democracy rang loud and clear. Let's keep the momentum going!
PA Bucks County sheriff was ousted, he wanted to work with ICE, the winning Sheriff literally ran on a base of 'taking politics out of policing'
That IS amazing the sheriff was ousted! In CT even our republican first selectman was voted out after only one term.
Yup. I’m from Lehigh County and I’ve been watching all of the races, not just in Pennsylvania but nationwide. And strangely enough, this very small, otherwise completely inconsequential result is enormously important.
I'm in Lehigh County, too. Dems won big all over!!! Keep it moving forward!
That is so amazing that he was voted out!! Even Bucks County's fed up!!
That is so awesome to hear! Was just in Bucks County the other day and saw those disgusting caricature signs of him and Trump "More ICE? Yes, sir"
Proud of you Bucks County PA!! 👍🏻👏🏻👌🏻
That one was sweet!
Finally, a burden feels a bit lighter. Momentum is the key - the pressure on the party is to maintain it, amplify it, and bring home victory over fascism in 2026.
The American people have spoken, tRump and his lapdogs will not be allowed to destroy our democracy. We need to maintain the impetus!
Rick Wilson (substack) said this morning that 3 democrats want to cross over to the GOP and open the government. WE MUST NOT DO THAT! Schumer and Jeffries have to hold the party together by standing firm.
It’s been the same three since the start. The Dems are holding so far!
They MUST continue to do so!
Oh no the democrats must not do that!! After the big wins yesterday they should know that most of America supports them.
Agree!
That would be utterly insane. This is like you've got a royal flush and you fold! OK, royal flush is exaggerated, it's unbeatable, a full house maybe. You don't fold on a full house. You make incredible gains, humiliate the GOP and capitulate? Are these people as thick as Trump? You let Trump take away millions of Americans' health care because you just won? If they betray their voters like that, they're throwing away their advantage. Of course Schumer is behind it, it's him all over. The most charitable thing I can say about him is that he's defeatist. When you're in opposition you're supposed to oppose! There's a clue in the name! I have to wonder if he's not done sorry of fifth columnist. Get a bloody spine and DO YOUR JOB! That's to oppose Trump and the GOP at every turn, every opportunity you have.
Schumer has stood firm on the shutdown just like we demanded of him. The Democrats who have defected are John Fetterman, Catherine Cortez Masto, and Angus King.
You may not like Schumer, but you should at least acknowledge that he is holding the line now.
I agree. He needs to go. He’s a pathetic leader.
I totally agree with you!
If you live in NH or MI, write your senators to tell them not to be fooled AGAIN (first time was when Dems caved back in March, which led to the big ugly bill after no allowance for negotiation)
Do you have the names of these Democrats?
Vickie, go to Substack, Rick Wilson “A Great Night….Don’t Blow It “, a 10 minute listen. In the meantime, I’m listening to it again to write down the names.
Thank you
“Gary Peters, Gene Chehine (sp) and others because Schumer wants to end the shutdown”
This is at 7:58 m into the 10 minute video.
Jeanne Shaheen, Senator
Fetterman (PA), Cortez Masto (NM) and Shaheen (NH) are the ones who folded at the beginning.
There was concern that Peters and Slotkin from MI, the other Senator from NH (I forget her name), Kelly (AZ), Welch (VT), and possibly one more were softening about opening up the government. But that was before the Democratic landslide last night.
Fetterman's stroke seems to have turned him into a Republican. Perhaps all the other MAGAts need brain scans....
It’s been sad and strange on every level. He is lost. We criticize Trump’s incapacitation. Fetterman gets a pass. Those of us in DC have a civil rights icon, Eleanor Holmes Norton, as our non-voting House delegate. She’s almost 90 and her staff and others know how she is unable to do this work effectively anymore. Yet she’s beloved. (Latest issue of NY Mag has story on aging pols and who we need..like NYC voted.)
NO!!!
https://thehill.com/homenews/senate/5589686-senate-democrats-shutdown-fight/
One of my Senators is one of the three. I've sent messages and received a reply. We all know that the way normal government works is discussion and negotiation with the other party to come to agreement. Right now, the GOP has no idea how government works, it's all their way or they shut down everything. You have to meet the GOP as they are now, not hope for them to do the right thing, Senator.
Oh lord! I hope not! They can’t do that. We can’t give up our advantage! Who are they?!
So it turns out that chasing and imprisoning brown people for no reason is really unpopular.
Neither is the Occupation of Chicago. Same thing, different name, I guess, but my family and friends who are still there -- I'm a Chicago kid -- are furious, even those with Republican blood.
Virtually every county in Joisey went big-move toward the Dems...pronounced shifts in large Hispanic-voter areas, amongst other demographics. But, of course Nate Cohn and his "yes-but..." cohort held out for "tRump wasn't on the ballot, so low-information/low-involvement voters...yadda-yadda". Sorry, not sorry, Nate, there was an across-the-board move left, so suck it up, mate.
F$&k Nate Silver.
Lance post "Nate Cohn"
Not in Hunterdon county . But considering I’ve lived here for 30 years and we’ve only had Democrats running for anything local or county level for the last 5 years I guess I can’t be too disappointed.
I hope the DNC takes note of Mamdani's win and decides that more progressivism should be the new stance of the Democratic party. As in, affordable housing and healthcare for all, a higher minimum wage, higher taxes on the wealthy, and so on. Put the emphasis where it belongs: on the people, not on mega-donors.
My own feeling is that the Democrats should run people who are authentic leaders of their constituents, who will range from progressive NYC folks to more center left suburban moms in Loughton County, VA. It’s not a one size fits all. It’s about delivering the right local solutions to the people where they are.
I agree. However, for years, the Dems have been all about moving right. At this point, I think the DNC is collectively right of center. Center-left would be a significant improvement. But Progressive values are what the majority of the country embraces, whether that's generally acknowledged or not. I don’t see how affordable healthcare and housing, women's autonomy, more equality, a higher minimum wage, and making the wealthy pay their share---all basic Progressive values---would NOT help all constituents. The details and methods could be adjusted to best serve various districts and states.
Exactly! The dems have been going for corporate and billionaire money for decades and leaving the people behind...no more! We must hold their feet to the fire and tell them they work for US!
I don't know how we'd accomplish that, as they do whatever they want once they get into office, but I certainly agree with your sentiment!
Amen, Jay!
AFTER ALL THESE WINS, HE IS GONNA HAVE TO TEAR DOWN THE WEST WING! That’ll show us libs who is boss!
jfc, don't give him any ideas... there is truly nothing he will not do, nothing he will shrink at, up to and including murder, especially if you're poor fishermen on a boat, minding your own business and going about your life. No monument he won't destroy, no historical site he won't take a giant dump on, nothing he won't steal like the World Cup, no one he won't sell out or betray (like, everyone). And now he's feeling humiliated, so lord knows what he'll do to this country to give himself a happy.
Agree. Very well said. A narcissist humiliated is a dangerous person.
Great roundup of Democratic victories, but I'd caution against over-interpreting these results or assuming they represent a durable shift.
We've seen this movie before—the euphoria after Obama's election in 2008 led to Democratic complacency, and we lost the House in 2010. Then after Biden's 2020 win, many assumed Trumpism was defeated, only to see Republicans gain ground in formerly purple states that are now solidly red (my own Iowa).
These wins provide momentum, joy and matter-- especially at the state and local level, but they won't stop Trump overnight—particularly in states that have shifted from purple to red over the past decade. Institutionalized MAGA has deep roots in state legislatures, governorships, and local offices across much of the country now.
Victory in scattered races is important for building bench strength. What are the lessens for middle America and red/purple states.. Otherwise we risk repeating the pattern of celebration followed by midterm collapse.
Building a deeper bench starting with down ballot elections is the only hope for sustained change. Texas Dems (Austinite here) failed this assignment doe the last 30 years and continue to pay the price. Repubs will fight tooth and nail with big money to hold on now that the see the resistance
You are correct. Some preliminary reviews of VA state Rep races show gains. I have yet to compare with other years, or NJ.
They show a flip of 13 seats. It’s historic!
oh just stop already
Let's be honest about this: Obama himself destroyed Democratic momentum by acting like a Republican. Then Biden destroyed Democratic momentum by acting like a Republican. I said this at the time and I called repeatedly telling them to stop being goddamn turncoat sellouts.
We need NO MORE SELLOUTS.
Democrats have to govern like FDR Democrats if they want to win. Every time a Democrat acts like a Republican, losses follow.
Truman told us this way back when, but the goddamn sellout types like Obama and Biden will not listen.
Truman:
"I've seen it happen time after time. When the Democratic candidate allows himself to be put on the defensive and starts apologizing for the New Deal and the fair Deal, and says he really doesn't believe in them, he is sure to lose. The people don't want a phony Democrat. If it's a choice between a genuine Republican, and a Republican in Democratic clothing, the people will choose the genuine article, every time; that is, they will take a Republican before they will a phony Democrat, and I don't want any phony Democratic candidates in this campaign."
Truman also accurately described Republicans, who haven't changed:
"Republicans approve of the American farmer, but they are willing to help him go broke. They stand four-square for the American home — but not for housing. They are strong for labor — but they are stronger for restricting labor's rights. They favor minimum wage — the smaller the minimum wage the better. They endorse educational opportunity for all — but they won't spend money for teachers or for schools. They think modern medical care and hospitals are fine — for people who can afford them. They consider electrical power a great blessing — but only when the private power companies get their rake-off. They think American standard of living is a fine thing — so long as it doesn't spread to all the people. And they admire of Government of the United States so much that they would like to buy it.""
Mamdani’s speech is one for the ages. I highly recommend everyone listen to the entirety of it. “Turn the volume up!”
And as surface level as it sounds, seeing someone who loves life and people and smiles helps us have hope. The ugly grumpiness and hate of MAGAts in charge contributes to feeling glum. Mamdani has plans and good policy, builds coalitions and is positive. He is the future.
It was a very good night in our bluish municipality, where a multi-term Alderman was voted out and Dems swept the other important races, including for School Board.
I have been reading this GOOD news all morning - I feel so energized and hopeful!
Now, Floridians, let's do the seemingly impossible and FLIP Florida!
Progressives had a great night in Colorado, too. All 4 progressive candidates won seats on the Aurora city council, knocking off 2 incumbents. In Denver, all 4 teachers union candidates won seats on the school board, despite being outspent by pro-charter school groups. Statewide, voters approved two measures to approved Prop MM which will raise taxes on those making $300K or more with the extra revenue going to pay for school meals. Prop LL will allow the state to keep all Prop MM revenue instead of returning excess funds to taxpayers under TABOR. My home state made me proud.
Wow, Colorado has been voting blue for awhile, but it looks like it's joined the club of reliable Blue states like Illinois. We need to conquer all the scenic states!
Colorado was very red when I was growing up, with the Denver, Boulder, and Pueblo being reliably blue. Even though the governor was a Dem from 1975-1999 and Dems had both Senate seats for a time, the legislature was red save for the 1975-76 session. Things started to change when the "Group of Four," democratic millionaires including Tim Gill, started to get involved. The state started moving reliably blue in 2002.
Thanks for the info. I'm thinking of moving there for my final "retirement" move, and I love that the politics have turned the way they have.
It's become very expensive.
Most places I am considering are, sadly.
Fantastic!!!!! Thanks for telling us, Meyer! Yay Colorado! 💙👏🏼👏🏽👏🏾
Just loved how our fellow Coloradans got around Tabor to feed school children.
Love it Jay!!!!,Absolutely thrilled at all our wins and yet we can't become complacent. Last night Democracy rang loud and clear. Let's keep the momentum going!
I got goosebumps reading this, feels so good to hopescroll!
I’ve had them since friends starting texting Tuesday night from all over the US. Nice to feel again, eh?!
I like to think that the 90 million that chose not to cast their vote in 2024 are kinda waking up!
We mapped the BIG BLUE WAVE that swept America
https://thedemlabs.org/2025/11/05/big-blue-wave-map/