Democratic Rep. Seth Moulton insists the Democratic Party needs to reassess its approach to divisive social issues, such as transgender rights, following the party’s losses in the 2024 election.
Moulton, of Massachusetts, argued on Boston Public Radio that Democrats risk alienating moderate voters by focusing on identity politics instead of issues impacting the middle class.
Citing a post-election report by Blueprint, he noted that many swing voters perceived Vice President Kamala Harris as prioritizing trans rights over middle-class concerns, which influenced their decision to support Donald Trump.
“We as Democrats are more concerned about offending people and just getting all our words right than actually having legitimate, serious debates about issues that matter,” Moulton told the radio station. “And I hate to say it, but if you look at exit polls … the number-one issue for swing voters who chose Trump was actually the feeling that Kamala [Harris] was more concerned about trans issues than the middle class. So we ignore this at our peril.”
Moulton voiced frustration over what he sees as Democrats’ hesitance to engage in open debates about issues impacting everyday Americans.
He warned that failing to address voters’ concerns in a pragmatic way risks ceding ground to Republicans, who he believes have an agenda to limit minority rights. Moulton emphasized the importance of crafting a “reasonable, rational” stance that resonates with the majority of Americans, or Democrats risk being outmaneuvered by Republicans on cultural and civil rights issues.
The congressman’s comments have sparked a backlash within his own party.
Massachusetts Democrats, including U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, criticized his remarks, with some expressing disappointment in his perceived dismissal of LGBTQ+ rights.
Moulton’s campaign manager, Matt Chilliak, also resigned amid the controversy, though Moulton declined to specify if his statements played a role. Moulton acknowledged that his language may have been imperfect but defended his message, stressing the need for Democrats to listen more to a diverse range of opinions.
Moulton, a Marine Corps veteran, also expressed frustration with the party’s broader approach, questioning why Republicans are seen as more competent on issues like immigration and the economy, even when their policies may be divisive or harmful.
He attributes this perception to Democrats’ reluctance to address these topics in an open manner, claiming that shutting down debate has made it harder for Democrats to build voter trust on these issues.