Bulwark Takes Is This The Smartest Mamdani Ad Yet?
Oct 28, 2025
Tim Miller discusses the contrasting campaign styles of Bernie Sanders, AOC, and Zoran Mamdani, emphasizing Mamdani's upbeat messaging on economic issues. He highlights the importance of refocusing left populism on economics to regain support from poor voters of color. Mamdani's optimism and cross-coalition appeal could attract moderates and swing voters. The conversation also touches on the dangers of Trump's DOJ weaponization and how it undermines democratic norms. Miller emphasizes the need for clear, actionable political messaging in today's climate.
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Upbeat Affordability Messaging Wins Broad Appeal
- Zoran Mamdani frames left-populist policy through upbeat, affordability-focused messaging that differs from Bernie and AOC's styles.
- Tim Miller argues this tone can broaden appeal to both working-class voters and swing suburbanites.
Economics, Not Culture, To Reclaim Lost Voters
- Democrats lost ground among poor voters of color by emphasizing culture and climate over economics in the last decade.
- Miller says left-populism must refocus on economics to re-engage those voters.
Messaging Must Reassure New And Traditional Voters
- Winning left-populism needs to hold new Democratic additions while reassuring former Republicans and swing voters.
- Miller believes Mamdani's manner and emphasis help reassure these mixed coalitions.