As the Democratic Party faces internal challenges following losses, progressives are increasingly debating who should lead their movement in shaping a new, populist agenda.
Conversations have begun among strategists, activists, and close political figures on the left, with many discussing who could represent their interests and advocate for their cause during the era of Trump’s influence.
Some advocates argue that the progressive left thrives best without a central figurehead bound to Washington, with power instead resting within grassroots efforts and collective action.
Nina Turner calls for a charismatic leader to inspire voters disillusioned with the status quo
Usamah Andrabi, a spokesperson for Justice Democrats, explained, “The strength of the progressive movement comes from its ability to operate without being overly dependent on a single leader. By focusing on building collective power, we can resist corporate influence and super PAC spending.”
As progressives look ahead to the challenges posed by a Republican-controlled Senate and House, there is growing urgency to find a strong leader who can channel voter anger toward Democrats’ failure in both the executive and legislative branches.
Nina Turner, co-chair of Bernie Sanders’s 2020 campaign, argued, “The situation is different now. Voters don’t want more of the same. After the Democrats’ massive losses, they are looking for a powerful alternative.”
While finding a figure with the same charisma as Trump remains difficult in a capitalist country, Turner urges fellow progressives to look beyond the usual sources of talent, such as the Congressional Progressive Caucus, for rising stars.
“Charisma is rare among these figures,” Turner observed. “Many may hold titles, but they lack the ability to inspire and mobilize. Trump’s ability to galvanize change in a desperate moment is something we need right now.”
Turner also emphasized that the progressive movement has an advantage: “This is our moment. People in the Democratic-leaning camp are rejecting mainstream Democrats and their failures.”
Although figures like Cenk Uygur, Kyle Kulinski, and Turner herself are being considered as potential leaders, many see former members of Congress like Cori Bush and Jamaal Bowman as better connected to urban activism and therefore strong contenders.
Privately, many close to Bernie Sanders acknowledge that, at 83, he may not seek another presidential run. Speculation is already swirling about who could take up his economic populist mantle and possibly gain his endorsement.
In the House, young progressives such as Reps. Summer Lee (D-Pa.), 36, Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.), 41, and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), who advised Sanders’s 2020 campaign, are quietly being discussed as potential future leaders. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) is also among those frequently mentioned.
Meanwhile, Senators John Fetterman (D-Pa.) and Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) have recently voiced criticism of their party, fueling speculation about their future political ambitions. Both have publicly diverged from traditional Democratic rhetoric, with Fetterman even suggesting he might support some of Trump’s Cabinet nominees.
These stances challenge the Democratic establishment’s typical approach of unwavering opposition to Trump, reflecting a growing division within the party about its direction. Progressive campaign operatives see this moment as an opportunity to shift the Democratic narrative, hoping to foster new talent for the future.
Key upcoming events, like the 2026 midterms and the race to lead the Democratic National Committee (DNC), will shape the next steps for progressives as they seek to exert influence and direct the party’s future course.
Though some view the top DNC position as symbolic, its selection will mark the first clear sign of the party’s ideological direction after the losses this fall. “We are focused on leadership right now,” one senior Democratic source stated. “The current conversations are all about who will lead the party going forward.”
Senators Fetterman and Murphy challenge party norms, hinting at their own political aspirations
Progressive figures are pushing for Ben Wikler of Wisconsin and Ken Martin of Minnesota to take the helm, but there are concerns that Rahm Emanuel, a centrist figure with ties to corporate interests, may be the frontrunner. While Martin has officially declared his candidacy, Wikler has kept a low profile.
“If the DNC picks Rahm Emanuel, it could cause a massive exodus from the party,” the source warned. Ocasio-Cortez, a vocal critic of corporate influence in Washington, expressed her dismay at Emanuel’s potential candidacy, calling attention to the disconnect between the Democratic establishment and the working class.
The battle for DNC leadership is seen as a microcosm of broader ideological conflicts within the party, with centrists blaming progressives for their electoral losses and progressives critiquing the party’s corporate ties.
Governors are traditionally seen as potential presidential candidates, and several Democratic governors are expected to play a key role in the anti-Trump movement. However, progressives are not impressed with the names often floated by the establishment.
Some point to Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear as a promising exception, noting his appeal to rural voters and his strong economic record, which aligns with progressive priorities.
“One candidate who stands out is Beshear,” said a former Sanders adviser, citing his accomplishments and ability to address both economic issues and cultural concerns. “He could show that you don’t have to neglect certain issues to fight for the everyday struggles of working people.”
