Politicology “Let Them Eat Tariffs”—The Weekly
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Dec 13, 2025 Lucy Caldwell, a political strategist and tech founder, explores the Democratic Party's struggle with populism versus centrism. She highlights the misleading signals from recent elections and how primaries can favor charismatic insurgents over electable candidates. The discussion shifts to the disconnect between elite economic narratives and the real financial pressures faced by voters, emphasizing the need for Democrats to embrace populism constructively. They also touch on the challenges of decentralized organizing for Democrats compared to Republicans.
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Democrats' Central Strategic Choice
- The Democratic Party faces a central choice between embracing a populist moment or doubling down on centrist appeal across varied regions.
- Lucy Caldwell argues primaries reward disruption and may not predict general-election viability, using Maine as a case study.
Maine Primary As A Warning
- Lucy uses the Maine Senate primary between Graham Plattner and Janet Mills to illustrate how insurgent charisma can outpace experience in primaries.
- She notes Plattner's charisma and scandals and warns primaries don't reflect general electorate composition.
Steer Populism, Don't Fight It
- Accept that populism is present and try to steer it toward a healthy, constructive form instead of resisting it.
- Caldwell urges supporting populist-leaning figures who can channel affordability concerns responsibly.