Liberal and Populist Tugs

Seeking instructive solace from the wreckage of 1980 and 1984, Democratic strategists extracted an obvious lesson: the old liberal coalition could not stay glued together. Instead, the party had to woo the three Ms -- middle classes, middle Americans, moderates -- who seek sensible solutions to concrete problems. After all, the same voters who gave the White House and Senate to the Republicans have also awarded most Governor's mansions and city halls to pragmatic, moderate Democrats.

Logical? Certainly. Difficult to sell to a party still studded with feisty factions? Again, certainly. Just look at some of the hottest primaries this year....

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!