Keith Ellison: The Democratic Party Needs to Start Listening to Constituents

The Takeaway | Nov 29, 2017

Click on the 'Listen' button above to hear this segment

All this week, we’ve been looking at the current state and the future of The Democratic Party.

But back in July 2015, when a Democrat was in the White House, Congressman Keith Ellison sounded the alarm bells, saying that Democrats needed to begin to be active to fight his momentum.

At the time, his pull in the party wasn’t quite as strong as it is today. The Democrat from Minnesota’s 5th District is now the deputy chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), following a contentious race with Tom Perez.

He says that the way to combat Trumpism is to energize voters from across the spectrum with big economic programs, and not just targeted advertisements.

This segment is hosted by Todd Zwillich

Be alert for scams. WNYC never asks for nor accepts money for coverage or interviews. Anyone making such a request does not represent WNYC.

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

Top Stories

Are Texas, Georgia and South Carolina Swing States Now?

The Brian Lehrer Show |

Cab Drivers On Strike in 'Waiting for Lefty'; Anthony Ippolito Plays Stallone in 'I Play Rocky'

All Of It with Alison Stewart |

Inside New York's bitter Republican civil war after blue wave

New York Republicans are openly calling for a shakeup of the state party.
Gothamist |

Pete Buttigieg on the Democrats’ Sweep of Congress, and Where They Go from Here

The former Transportation Secretary, who is a likely Presidential contender, talks about how a Democratic Congress will try to make an impact, even with an angry lame-duck President.
The New Yorker Radio Hour |
YOU ARE ONLINE