Democrats Convene in Denver to Chart Future Course

Following a sweeping victory in the midterm elections, Democratic leaders, strategists, and potential 2028 presidential hopefuls are gathering in Colorado to discuss the party’s future. The ‘What’s Next’ conference in Denver, organized by the independent group Majority Democrats, aims to reflect on the current political landscape. An advisor for the group mentioned to Fox News Digital that the election results represent ‘more a repudiation of Donald Trump’ than ‘validation of our party.’

Among the attendees are former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, and Senators Cory Booker, Raphael Warnock, and Elissa Slotkin. Also present will be Sen.-elect James Talarico from Texas, New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill, Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger, Rep. Ro Khanna, and former Obama advisor David Axelrod.

As Democrats prepare to take control of Congress in January, they aim to capitalize on their gains by formulating strategies to fulfill campaign promises. These include improving affordability and healthcare, which helped secure wins in both chambers of Congress and several traditionally Republican state Houses.

Organizers view the conference as a chance to evaluate the 2026 results and explore the ideas and debates shaping the party’s trajectory through 2028. The event was planned before Democrats’ midterm victories, where they achieved historic seat flips in areas like Texas, Kansas, and South Carolina.

Party leaders now face the challenge of converting midterm success into a governing agenda, appealing beyond their energized base. They have pledged to lower costs, enhance government services, and investigate the previous administration. However, the party must address internal questions about uniting its progressive and moderate elements.

Lis Smith, a senior adviser to Majority Democrats, emphasizes the need for honest discussions about recent victories and future directions. ‘Democrats won big last week, but let’s be honest: the election was more a repudiation of Donald Trump than a validation of our party,’ she stated. The conference aims to bring together prominent and emerging voices to define what being a Democrat means going forward.

With high-profile guests, the event might also offer insight into potential candidates for the 2028 presidential race. The gathering provides an opportunity for contenders to present their views, as the party considers its next leader.