The Democrats’ Communication Challenge

The Democrats are facing a language issue. Recently, Politico reported that a think tank called Third Way is advising party leaders to steer clear of 45 specific words and phrases. These terms, they argue, sound more like something you’d hear from campus activists rather than everyday conversations with neighbors.

The list includes phrases like “cisgender,” “radical transparency,” “stakeholders,” and “unoppressed.” You can almost hear the collective eye rolls from diners across the nation.

I’ve noticed it myself. People tend to speak in the straightforward language of their daily lives. Whether it’s at Michigan City Hall or a county fair in Iowa, their topics often revolve around jobs, schools, bills, and crime. Phrases like “an individual involved in justice” feel uncomfortable and overly complex — like trying to communicate through a translator.

In Third Way’s guidance, they’ve categorized these problematic terms into groups like “therapeutic speaking” and “organizer terminology.” But why stop there? If the Democrats need help with their vocabulary, I’d be willing to step in.

Welcome to the Woke Dictionary (and other baffling phrases).

Examples Include:

• Birth person: This translates to “mom.” Unless you’re crafting a sci-fi dystopia, just stick with “mother.”
• Food insecurity: Meaning “hungry.” People would much prefer a meal over a symposium.
• Latinx: Translating to “Latin” or “Latina.” Surveys indicate that many in the Hispanic community don’t even use “Latinx.”
• Individuals involved in justice: This means “criminal” or “prisoner.” Anyone using this phrase should probably face some consequences.
• Unused: This means “homeless.” Switching words doesn’t change the reality.
• Those who have moved: In essence, just “immigrants.” Adding extra words doesn’t make it more compassionate.
• Epistemic violence: Actually, it means “disagreement.” It’s not usually something that requires a therapist.
• Coup/Rebellion (January 6th): Simply “riot.” Let’s not overcomplicate things.
• Fascist: Roughly means “someone I dislike.” It’s a word that once meant something much more significant.
• Reproductive justice: Just say “abortion.” If that’s what you mean, say it directly.
• Stakeholders: In simpler terms, “people.” You can leave out the jargon unless you’re writing a horror novel.
• Cisgender: Translation: “not transgender.” It seems unnecessary to label what’s essentially normal.
• Dialogue: This means just “talk.” There’s no need for fancy terms over dinner.
• Centering voice: It translates to “listening.” It’s a conversation, not an art performance.
• Small attack: Simply “insult.” Words can be small or imagined, but we’ve had a word for this all along.
• Overton Window: Means “what’s considered normal.” No special framing needed.
• Body (e.g., “black and brown bodies”): Translation: “people.” The irony is that it doesn’t sound more human.
• Cultural appropriation: Simply “borrowing.” Sometimes it’s in poor taste, but not always.
• Living experience: This means just “experience.” Like, what else could it be?
• My truth: Meaning “how I feel.” It’s okay, but it’s definitely not “the truth.”

This dilemma stands out particularly in the abortion discourse. The Democrats might feel comfortable using terms like “births,” “pregnant,” or “reproductive justice,” but these can alienate many voters. Even the term “abortion” often gets sidestepped for euphemisms like “choice” or “reproductive health care.” If you’re in support of abortion rights, just say it plainly.

Even the word “abortion” has its own euphemistic weight — it’s a clinical term that often obscures the harsh realities involved.

Politicians have been playing these linguistic games for ages. George Orwell nailed it when he stated that “political language is designed to make lies seem true and murder respectable.”

While Third Way’s advice might raise eyebrows, it’s also a positive sign. It shows some Democrats recognize the power of words and their responsibilities in using them. Republicans could benefit from a similar realization; their lexicon can be just as bewildering.

Some Notable Republican Terms:

• Woke: Translation: “what I dislike.” It’s become a catch-all for criticism.
• Cancel culture: Meaning “boycott.” This has been happening since the Boston Tea Party.
• Deep state: Translation: “distrust of government agencies.”
• Fake news: Simply “news I disagree with.”
• Illegal Aliens: Translation: “illegal immigrants.” One feels straightforward, the other doesn’t.
• Renos: “Moderate Republicans.” They’re not endangered, just different.
• Groomer: It means “a reckless political opponent.” This reduces serious discussions about child safety.
• The War on Christmas: Translation: “People wishing happy holidays.” Jesus’ birthday remains unchanged regardless.
• Globalist: Meaning “advocate for international cooperation.” Often used like a slur.
• Family values: It’s “my values” — commonly said just before scandals arise.

Both parties often cling to words that resonate with their base while pushing others away. It’s like rhetorical junk food: cheap and unsatisfying. Voters can tell when they’re being patronized.

Politicians don’t need experts on cultural jargon; they just need to speak plainly, like their neighbors do. Imagine if everyone took a step back to simplify their language. There’s no need for terms like “equity framework” or “deep state.” Voters don’t require a glossary; they just need authenticity. In the world of politics, the most straightforward words often ring true.