Democrats convene in Denver after historic 2024 election gains

Democratic officials and strategists gathered in Denver on Thursday for the two‑day “What’s Next” conference, marking the party’s strongest electoral performance in 50 years.

The event, organised by the new group Majority Democrats, focused on charting the party’s next steps now that it holds majorities in both chambers of the U.S. Congress and control of at least 12 state legislative chambers.

Speakers included former New Orleans mayor Mitch Landrieu, Texas senatorial candidate James Talarico, former Attorney General Eric Holder and data analyst David Shor, each urging the party to avoid internal disputes and to address voters’ economic concerns.

Analysts at the conference highlighted that the victory was driven largely by low turnout among 2024 Trump supporters, noting that many former Republican voters have yet to switch allegiance.

Among the attendees were newly elected Democrats and potential presidential hopefuls such as former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Senator Cory Booker and Governor Josh Shapiro, underscoring the event’s role as a showcase for rising party talent.

Denver also used the conference to promote its bid for the 2028 Democratic National Convention, presenting the city as a modern example of a “purple” state turning solidly blue.

Source: ABC News. Photo: MINEIA MARTINS / Pexels.