How to win back Reactionary voters, and whether it is even worth the effort, has been a major topic of discussion among Democrats over the last two years. Here are my observations:
1. Don’t expect too much: You’re only going to nibble around the edges, no matter what you do. Still, that’s millions of votes that are in play on a national basis.
2. Faux vs. real populism: Trump stuffed his cabinet with billionaires and cut taxes primarily for the wealthy, not for working people. Don’t forget to point that out, repeatedly.
3. Trump hates labor: A fair number of Reactionaries are union members. Make a point of talking about the GOP’s ongoing efforts to destroy unions.
4. Repeal and don’t replace: Trump and the GOP tried to take your health insurance away. Is that really what you voted for in 2016?
5. Stay neutral in the culture wars: Emphasize your local roots and your sympathy for rural culture. Don’t let your opponent tar you as a wealthy, out-of-touch limousine liberal.