A new political force led by progressive youth is setting its sights on Capitol Hill with ambitious plans. Leaders We Deserve, a group founded by activist David Hogg, is poised to invest $20 million in the 2026 midterm elections.
The group's primary aim is to boost younger Democrats against established incumbents in solidly Democratic districts, though it will steer clear of actively challenging veteran lawmakers like Nancy Pelosi and Jan Schakowsky, as the San Francisco Chronicle reports.
Leaders We Deserve, known for its left-leaning stance, represents a youth-driven initiative seeking to infuse new energy into the Democratic Party establishment. As midterm preparations intensify, the group stands ready to back new voices, challenging the age-old political hierarchy that dominates the landscape. However, despite calls for change, seasoned figures like Pelosi, aged 85, remain untargeted.
Hogg, a well-known activist and vice chairman of the Democratic National Committee, leads the charge for generational change within the party. At just 25 years old, Hogg draws on his experiences from a traumatic school shooting to fuel his advocacy for progress. He emphasizes the importance of action and effectiveness in leadership, regardless of age.
While some might wonder why Pelosi, a prominent figure in Democratic Party politics, is excluded from the group's targeting, Hogg's rationale is clear. He acknowledges her continued contributions and effectiveness, viewing her and Schakowsky -- a fellow octogenarian -- as leaders who still deliver results.
Pelosi, despite stepping away from her role as House speaker, maintains her influence through local initiatives focused on preserving vital programs like Medicare and Social Security. Her enduring dedication has been highlighted by her efforts to dial back Donald Trump's policies and support the Affordable Care Act, providing fodder for those who argue against challenging her.
Behind the scenes, Pelosi continues to wield considerable influence, even playing an instrumental role in then-President Joe Biden's political decisions. Her ability to advise and guide key Democratic Party figures remains largely intact, solidifying her position as an indispensable advisor within the party.
Nevertheless, her tenure is not without controversy. Saikat Chakrabarti, aged 39 and a former chief of staff to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, publicly declared his intent to challenge Pelosi. In his campaign announcement, Chakrabarti urged for new leadership and urged voters to consider a fresh perspective.
Although Pelosi's plans for the upcoming election remain undisclosed, speculation continues regarding potential successors. State Sen. Scott Wiener, another potential candidate, has indicated his willingness to run if Pelosi steps aside. Meanwhile, Christine Pelosi, Nancy's daughter, could also emerge as a contender for the coveted seat.
The broader context of these political maneuvers reflects deep concerns over the Democratic Party's perceived fragility. Hogg, in his criticism, declared that the party is confronting an unprecedented crisis, with a recent CNN poll underscoring a decline in favorability ratings. According to the poll, Democratic Party favorability has dropped 20 points since early 2021, a stark warning for party strategists.
Such figures offer a sobering backdrop against which political dynamics are being reevaluated. The Republican Party currently holds a higher favorability rating, amplifying the pressure on Democrats to recalibrate their strategies and focus on winning back voters' confidence and support.
As leaders grapple with these challenges, the necessity of political renewal echoes throughout the Democratic Party ranks. Hogg's advocacy encapsulates this sentiment, urging a move beyond seniority politics and toward a model that values effectiveness and passion in representation.
With the 2026 midterm elections on the horizon, Leaders We Deserve stands ready to champion new voices within the Democratic Party fold. As the nation awaits Pelosi's next move, the outcome of these power dynamics will undoubtedly shape the future of both the party and the American political landscape at large.
