Between the coasts, populist Democrats see room to reclaim lost ground in red states
Democratic candidates in traditionally red states are adopting a populist economic platform to appeal to working-class voters frustrated with both major parties. By focusing on corporate power and economic stress, these candidates hope to flip seats in the upcoming midterms.
Why it matters
This strategy represents a potential shift in political tactics for Democrats attempting to regain influence in rural and conservative-leaning regions.
WESTERN MONTANA — Voters are angry, and an unconventional crop of Democratic candidates see an opening in this year's midterms to reclaim territory others in the party have given up on.
From the Great Plains and Upper Midwest to the Deep South, campaigns are taking a page from a progressive brand of economic populism that once flourished away from the coasts.
They are betting that harnessing anger at corporate power and both parties might succeed when many voters believe the economy and government are not working for working people.
If successful, they could forge a new playbook to compete again in places Democrats used to win.
In Montana, former U.S. Forest Service smokejumper Sam Forstag is trying to flip a House seat by speaking directly and from his own experience about the economic stress facing many Montana voters.
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