Khanna Urges Democrats to Focus on Working-Class Economic Issues

Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., pointed out on Sunday that Democrats have not connected well with working-class voters. He attributed this to the party’s support of “status quo establishment candidates” who do not challenge the current economic system. Speaking on “Meet the Press,” Khanna discussed a newly published Democratic National Committee report analyzing the party’s defeat in the 2024 election and its wider challenges.

“We must recognize that the current system is ineffective,” Khanna stated. “It has produced significant inequality. The economy is unbalanced and unfair, failing many working-class and middle-class Americans. Often, we have promoted candidates who refuse to criticize a failing economic and political system.” Khanna emphasized moving away from typical politics and addressing economic concerns after the party’s 2024 setbacks.

Rep. Ro Khanna believes a shift from “status quo” politics is crucial for Democrats to regain working-class support. (Leah Millis/Reuters)

Khanna’s comments followed an NBC mention of the DNC report, suggesting Democrats have focused too much on “winning arguments” while Republicans aim at “winning elections.” He dismissed the idea of abandoning logical debate, expressing the need for a strong economic message targeting financially struggling voters.

“I don’t think we should abandon reason,” Khanna commented. “More Americans likely desire logical debates in this country.”

Reflecting on former Vice President Kamala Harris, Khanna noted the report’s statement that the White House failed to enhance her public image effectively. “If she had focused on economic issues in places like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Ohio, advocating for policies like the Inflation Reduction Act and the CHIPS Act, outcomes might have been different,” he said.

Khanna urged Democrats to rebuild their support among working-class voters for future elections. “We need an economic message that addresses the concerns of working-class individuals who’ve been marginalized,” he stated, emphasizing the need to confront a “rigged” system.

Rep. Khanna emphasizes the need to address inequality and an unfair economic system. (Christian Monterrosa/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Khanna defended DNC Chair Ken Martin amid calls for his resignation following criticism of the report’s handling. “No,” Khanna replied when questioned about Martin stepping down.

Khanna supported Martin’s stance against super PACs in Democratic primaries and opposing superdelegates in selecting party nominees. “Ken Martin aligns with Paul Wellstone Democrats,” Khanna remarked. “There are actions he’s taken that I agree with.”

Khanna acknowledged that the autopsy process could have been improved and encouraged more collaboration with state parties before the 2026 and 2028 elections. “Could the autopsy be handled better? Absolutely,” he said. “Should there be better support for state parties for upcoming elections? Definitely. But I don’t think he should resign.”

The report was ordered after Democratic losses in the 2024 election cycle and faced delays in its release due to internal conflicts over its findings. CJ Womack, associate editor at Fox News, provided the report with insights based on his experience in journalism and political analysis.

For more coverage on media and culture, visit Fox News or download the Fox News app. CJ Womack graduated with a degree in Political Science and Journalism from Long Beach State University and joined Fox News Digital in 2026.