Congresswoman: If Democrats Win Power, What Will We Do With It? | Opinion

If Democrats secure victory in the upcoming elections, a key question looms: what will they do with the power they gain? The polls suggest voters are dissatisfied with the failing economy and are turning away from Trump. As co-director of a national network of grassroots organizations, the author witnessed firsthand the frustration expressed at doors, with economic anxieties being a top concern. In 2024, a staggering 90 million people stayed home during the election, with disengagement playing a major role in the outcome.

To address voter expectations, Democrats must promise accountability and action. This means tackling the affordability crisis by lowering costs at the gas pump and grocery store, ending the illegal war, and fighting corruption to stop billionaires from further raiding public coffers. Addressing the affordability crisis goes beyond merely lowering costs; it's about putting more money in people's pockets.

Recent polling shows strong support for a national health plan, guaranteed healthcare as a right, and opposition to tariffs raising prices.

The author emphasizes that organized people can beat organized money, and voters are eager to see bold ideas implemented. Winning differently only matters if Democrats are willing to govern differently, even when faced with skepticism from the establishment. In Congress, the author learned that winning an election is not enough; they must be willing to fight for their constituents.

Voters are practically begging Democrats to reject politics as usual and put a popular agenda on the president's desk, daring him to veto it. The author calls for Democrats to use their power to materially improve the lives of their constituents, emphasizing that voters are not content with more of the same.