upper waypoint

Why Democrats Are Undecided on The Best Message to Counter Trump and Musk

Save ArticleSave Article
Failed to save article

Please try again

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 12: U.S. Rep. Robert Garcia (D-CA) speaks while displaying a photograph of Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, during the House Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency in the Rayburn House Office Building on February 12, 2025 in Washington, DC. The subcommittee held a hearing titled "The War on Waste: Stamping Out the Scourge of Improper Payments and Fraud." (Photo by Al Drago/Getty Images)

Democrats have been struggling to respond to President Trump and Elon Musk’s rampage through the federal government. But California Representative Robert Garcia has become a leading critic of Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency and an example of one strategy to push back. Scott talks to Garcia about his approach. 

Then, Scott is joined by Vox senior politics reporter Christian Paz to discuss the most effective messaging strategies. Should Democrats make a populist appeal aimed at middle class voters worried about their privacy and economic well-being? Or should they focus on a defense of the system and democratic norms?

Sponsored

lower waypoint
next waypoint