In an amusing attempt to address the challenges faced by Democrats, some progressive think tanks are advising against using overly complicated language and jargon. They pointed out in a recent note that this approach can alienate everyday people.
On Friday, they expressed concerns that the language used by the party could come across as elitist and divisive. The memo referenced many terms that have become common in progressive discourse, like “safe spaces” and “triggers,” while also critiquing phrases related to justice and crime.
“The impact of this kind of language makes us sound extreme and out of touch,” the memo cautioned. They touched on the idea that, in trying to please a select few, the larger population feels sidelined. It’s particularly noticeable on cultural matters.
Some prominent Democrats—like Rahm Emanuel and Sen. Elissa Slotkin—are urging their colleagues to speak more plainly and connect with regular voters. Yet there’s a reluctance to move away from established progressive terminology, partly due to fears about backlash from the party’s left wing.
It seems some party members are worried that shifting away from politically correct language could upset core constituents. The memo from the think tank argues that the linguistic issue is just a part of a much larger disconnection from average Americans.
However, this perspective might overlook significant policy issues. Many Democrats have supported controversial stances, such as open borders and expansive social programs, which resonate mainly with a narrow activist audience rather than the general public.
Strategists at the think tank might not see these policy decisions as problematic, but polls suggest that most Americans do. Former Vice President Kamala Harris faced criticism for supporting taxpayer funding for certain surgeries tied to immigration, a decision that did not sit well with many voters.
Simply adjusting the rhetoric won’t change how these policies are perceived. In fact, using polite language to mask radical ideas may do more harm than good and could backfire in the long run.
People are weary of being spoken to through a filtered lens, as if they need to be coddled. At the end of the day, it’s not just the words; it’s the policies behind them that matter.
