On CNN’s “State of the Union,” Republican commentator Scott Jennings confronted Democratic Rep. Debbie Dingell (D‑MI), accusing the party of being led by “radical figures” like Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez and Jasmine Crockett. Jennings argued Democrats have abandoned mainstream voters on issues like immigration and transgender athletes in sports—topics he described as “80/20 cultural issues.”
Jennings emphasized the Democrats’ leadership deficit, pointing to polling data showing voters perceive Republicans as stronger on economic and middle-class issues. He called attention to reports indicating a substantial drop in Democratic support on those fronts.
The heated exchange reflected growing concern within conservative circles over Democratic direction and its resonance with centrist voters. With only 16% of Americans viewing Democrats as strong leaders and 19% believing they can “get things done,” Jennings challenged his counterparts to address these perception gaps.
Jennings went further to suggest alternatives in Democratic leadership, naming Maryland Gov. Wes Moore as a more capable voice and downplaying names like Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. His remarks fueled speculation about the party’s strategy ahead of the 2028 cycle.
