
Raging Moderates with Scott Galloway and Jessica Tarlov Why Progressives Won’t WIN in the 2026 Midterms (ft. David Frum)
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Oct 22, 2025 David Frum, a senior writer at The Atlantic, joins the discussion on the Democratic Party’s strategy ahead of the 2026 midterms. They explore the effectiveness of an anti-Trump focus versus the need for a more nuanced message. Frum emphasizes that economic progressivism paired with social moderation can resonate in certain districts. The duo also debates the motives and implications of recent U.S. strikes in the Caribbean, assessing their impact on drug policy and international relations. Plus, they reflect on Graham Platner's online past and its influence on political candidacy.
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Running Against The Incumbent Works
- Running against an unpopular incumbent is a rational midterm strategy because voters dislike many aspects of his rule.
- David Frum argues uniformly attacking Trump lets varied voters pick their own reasons to oppose him, forming a broad coalition.
In-Party Must Defend Everywhere
- The in-party must run a consistent national defense of the incumbent while the out-party customizes attacks by locale.
- Frum says this structural difference gives the out-party flexibility that favors midterm challengers.
No Universal Campaign Formula
- Different districts demand different blends of economic and social messaging; there is no single winning formula.
- Frum warns strategists against imposing their preferred ideology instead of adapting to local electorates.






