The aftermath of Donald Trump’s election victory is sparking debate among Democrats, with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Sen. Bernie Sanders discussing the party’s support for working-class Americans.
Exit polls revealed that Democrats received more backing from the top earners than from the middle and lower income groups for the first time in decades.
This trend started after Barack Obama’s presidency in 2008, with support from the poorest third declining while rising among the wealthiest.
Sanders criticized the election results, accusing the Democratic Party of abandoning working-class people. He emphasized the need for change and expressed disappointment with the party’s current leadership.
Responding to Sanders, Pelosi denied claims of abandoning the working class. She highlighted the party’s performance in the House and defended its commitment to working-class Americans.
On Sunday talk shows, Sanders reiterated his criticism of the party, citing issues such as income inequality, healthcare access, childhood poverty, and campaign finance. He challenged the Democratic Party’s dedication to working people.
Trump’s rhetoric targeting immigrants was criticized by Sanders, who argued that the root cause of economic issues lies in corporate greed and the influence of the billionaire class.
In addition to lower-income individuals, Trump garnered support from Hispanic, Black, and female voters, traditional Democratic constituents. Polling expert Frank Luntz attributed Trump’s success to paycheck-to-paycheck voters across demographics.
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