Michigan’s Democrat Governor Gretchen Whitmer has argued that the Democratic Party’s “inclusive” messaging hasn’t caught on because it can be “too obtuse” for voters to understand, rather than the ideology being unpopular among most Americans.
Gov. Whitmer made the claims in a new interview, even as she rejected criticism that Democrats have overfocused on inclusivity at the expense of broader appeal.
Speaking Tuesday on “Morning Edition” with Steve Inskeep, Whitmer was asked whether she sees merit in the argument that Democrats have “tilted the playing field” by prioritizing inclusive language and policies.
“No, I don’t think so,” Whitmer said.
“You know, when you say, ‘let’s save the rainforest,’ it doesn’t mean you say, I hate all the other forests, right?
“It’s recognizing a unique vulnerability.
“I think that’s smart.”
Whitmer insisted Democrats remain a “big tent” party and dismissed the notion that inclusivity requires winners and losers.
“Democrats are a big tent,” she said.
“We want everyone to be successful.
“It’s not picking and choosing.
“It’s not a zero-sum game where I only win if you lose.
“Everyone can get ahead.”
At the same time, the Michigan governor conceded that the party’s messaging often fails to resonate.
“Sometimes, maybe our message is too obtuse for people,” Whitmer admitted.
“And we have to really have those interactions where people feel like, yeah, you matter, too.”
Pressed by Inskeep to clarify what she meant by “obtuse,” Whitmer said Democrats often speak in overly broad terms that leave voters disconnected.
“We make everything so general that sometimes people can’t see themselves in it,” she said.
“I think that that’s a pitfall.”
Whitmer also emphasized the importance of listening to voters outside traditional Democrat strongholds, arguing that engagement, not lecturing, is essential.
“You’re not learning if you’re not listening,” she said.
WATCH:
The comments come as Whitmer is increasingly mentioned as a potential Democrat presidential contender in 2028.
She was also floated as a possible replacement for Joe Biden ahead of the 2024 election.
More recently, Whitmer drew criticism from members of her own party after participating in an Oval Office meeting with President Donald Trump in April.
It was a move that some Democrats viewed as too conciliatory toward the Trump administration.
Her remarks underscore a growing debate within Democrat circles over whether the party’s rhetoric and priorities are connecting with everyday voters, or alienating them at a time of heightened political competition.
Our comment section is restricted to members of the Slay News community only.
To join, create a free account HERE.
If you are already a member, log in HERE.