Sen. Mark Kelly (D‑Ariz.) acknowledged on CNN that the Democratic Party suffers from a severe “messaging problem,” citing national polls that show the party’s favorability has sunk to its lowest point in nearly three decades.
In a rare moment of candor, Kelly attributed the party’s decline to its failure to communicate effectively with everyday Americans. He emphasized that Democrats are focusing on issues voters don’t care about—such as identity politics and climate ideology—instead of bread‑and‑butter concerns like inflation, border security, and economic growth. “We have a problem, and it’s a messaging problem,” Kelly told Jake Tapper.
A Wall Street Journal poll conducted July 16‑20 found only 33% of registered voters view the Democratic Party favorably, while 63% hold an unfavorable opinion—the worst showing since 1990. Kelly urged party leaders to engage voters with clear explanations on programs like Medicaid and SNAP, saying constituents deserve straightforward communication about policies affecting their lives.
Kelly’s blunt assessment comes as Democrats prepare for the 2026 midterms under mounting pressure from internal critics. Figures such as Sen. John Fetterman have similarly criticized the party’s “shaming” rhetoric and disconnection from working‑class voters.
Republicans have seized on the internal turmoil, emphasizing conservative strength on issues like border control, inflation, and crime. GOP strategists argue Kelly’s admission confirms what voters already believe: Democrats are out of touch with real Americans and unclear about their priorities.
