Democratic Party Grapples with Disconnect from Reality

Primaries show generational shift and need for localized campaigns

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The author discusses the results of recent Democratic primaries, highlighting how left-leaning and anti-Republican voters are proving smarter than the party establishment. They argue that the Democratic Party needs to return to allowing candidates to run races their own way in their local communities, rather than being overly influenced by the Democratic National Committee (DNC). The article touches on several key primary races, including in Texas, North Carolina, and Maine, and emphasizes the importance of the Black vote and progressive candidates.

Why it matters

This story underscores the growing disconnect between the Democratic Party establishment and the grassroots, progressive wing of the party. It suggests that the party needs to adapt its approach to better reflect the changing priorities and preferences of its base, particularly younger and more diverse voters, in order to be successful in upcoming elections.

The details

The article discusses several key primary results, including James Talarico's convincing win over Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett in the Texas Senate primary, the potential for moderate John Cornyn to prevail over the "despicable" Ken Paxton in the Republican runoff, and the blowout victory of more progressive candidates over moderate Democrats in North Carolina. It also highlights the importance of the Black vote in Texas and the author's belief that a Democrat can't win statewide there without strong Black turnout. Additionally, the article touches on a surprising Democratic flip of a state House seat in Arkansas and the upcoming Maine Senate race, where the author argues the party establishment is making a mistake by backing the older, more establishment candidate Janet Mills over the progressive Graham Platner.

  • The Texas primary elections took place on Tuesday.
  • The North Carolina primary elections also took place on Tuesday.
  • The Arkansas special election for a state House seat took place on Tuesday.
  • The Maine primary election is scheduled for June.

The players

James Talarico

The winner of the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate in Texas, defeating Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett.

John Cornyn

The incumbent Republican U.S. Senator from Texas who will face the winner of the Republican runoff between him and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

Ken Paxton

The Texas Attorney General who is running against incumbent Republican U.S. Senator John Cornyn in a runoff election.

Roy Cooper

The Democratic Governor of North Carolina who will face Trump-endorsed Michael Whatley in the U.S. Senate race.

Zohran Mamdani

A "generational political talent" who won the New York City mayoral race in November.

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What they’re saying

“The biggest surprise was the absolute blowout in terms of the percentages, and what this really says to me is that not only are the voters party loyalists now, but the parties are expecting their elected representatives to be party loyalists — to be allegiant to the party — and when you buck the party, the party can kick back.”

— Michael Bitzer, Catawba College political science professor and North Carolina political observer (Alternet)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.