The scandal consuming the Democratic party as of late, reminds me of exactly the reason why I, like so many other millennials in my generation, registered with no political party affiliation. This decision was not the result of some naïve understanding of the policymaking process. I completely accept that parties are an inevitable and necessary component of a vibrant and constructive democracy. Rather, it is that I simply do not condone the rampant hostile and spiteful attitudes and actions on behalf of members from both parties. The younger generation cannot be expected to participate in an organization that does not welcome participation or reform. It is likely the reason why about 50% of all millennials age 18-33 identify as political independents (Pew Millennials). This continuing integrity bashing, is particularly detrimental to the Democratic party because it has historically found a very sizable support base in the younger generation. In 2008, Democrats had a 32 percent lead over Republicans, in terms of young voter support. By the end of 2009, this percentage lead had dropped drastically to 14 percent (Pew Democrats). I have no doubt this percentage continues to decrease, especially amidst the recent revelations regarding Democratic party campaign information for 2016 presidential primary.

      The most recent headline surrounding the Democratic party has proven exactly why millennials are turning to non-partisanship or other party alternatives. Former Democratic National Committee (DNC) Interim Chair, Donna Brazile has attested to the fact that Hillary Clinton took control of the DNC months before her campaign for the party’s nomination actually begun. Brazile confesses that she felt anger and frustration over the situation, and found herself in an impossible position (Brazile). Millennials also found themselves frustrated, as Vermont Senator, Bernie Sanders, saw massive support amongst young voters, but failed to secure the nomination, likely due to the opposition’s overwhelming funds and amassing of party elites. Senator Elizabeth Warren, a recognizable face for progressive democrats, and a likely contender for the party’s presidential nomination in 2020, supported Brazile’s statements in a brief interview (Tatum). This complete shift from the toxic Clintonian regime, is a good start for the Democratic party, as it seeks to reevaluate and strategize. It must learn to adapt to its two major bases: a more centrist older base and a more progressive younger base.

It seems to me that progress will never be truly achievable in the midst of such paralyzing rivalry and tension. The Clinton camp’s shadowy fund funneling will leave grave implications for Democrats as they move forward into this uncertain political climate. Democrats cannot afford to overlook or neglect their younger voting base. If they do, they are sure to again encounter the same fundraising problems they had before Hillary’s campaign saved them through that soul-selling deal. Let alone, progressive Democrats will have nowhere to turn, and if they don’t get the opportunity to support the Obamas and Bernie’s of the Democratic party, they will look elsewhere. If Democrats are to avoid the same radical takeover that Republicans fell subject to with the Tea Party, they must acknowledge progressives, and make concessions that are feasible. It is ultimately critical that younger voters engage civically for the stability of this republic. This is only achievable through trust and credibility. 

 

Work Cited

 

Brazile, Donna. “Hacks: The Inside Story of the Break-ins and Breakdowns that Put Donald Trump in the White House.” Hachette Books (2017).

 

 “Democrats’ Edge Among Millennials Slips: A Pro-Government, Socially Liberal Generation.” Pew Research Center (February 18, 2010). Accessed November 1, 2017. http://www.pewresearch.org/2010/02/18/democrats-edge-among-millennials-slips/

 

“Millennials in Adulthood: Detached from Institutions, Networked with Friends.” Pew Research Center (March 7, 2014). Accessed November 1, 2017. http://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2014/03/07/millennials-in-adulthood/

 

Tatum, Sophie. “Asked if DNC was rigged in Clinton’s favor, Warren says yes.” CNN (November 3, 2017). Accessed November 3, 2017. http://www.cnn.com/2017/11/02/politics/elizabeth-warren-dnc-rigged/index.html