As President Donald Trump’s agenda surges forward, Democrats are grappling with a crisis of direction and influence. This alarming trend raises questions about the state of political discourse and what it means for America’s future.

Summary

• Democratic voters urge lawmakers to use shocking tactics against Trump’s policies.
• Some Democrats suggest risking arrest or physical harm to resist.
• The Democratic Party faces internal strife and low approval ratings post-election.
• Republicans condemn calls for violence as reckless.

Voters Push for Extreme Measures 

Following Trump’s decisive November victory, Democratic voters are demanding aggressive resistance to his policies, with some explicitly calling for violence. 

An anonymous Democratic lawmaker told Axios, “Our own base is telling us that what we’re doing is not good enough…there needs to be blood to grab the attention of the press and the public.” 

Another liberal added, “Some of them have suggested…what we really need to do is be willing to get shot,” signaling a rejection of civility in favor of extreme tactics.

“The expectations aren’t just unreal. They’re dangerous,” another Democrat operative said. 

Party in Disarray 

The Democratic Party, stripped of institutional power, faces record-low approval, with CNN polling showing deep dissatisfaction among its base. Calls to oust Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer reflect internal chaos, as voters grow frustrated with the party’s inability to counter Trump’s momentum. 

“We’ve got people who are desperately wanting us to do something… no matter what we say, they want [more],” Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Ill.) told Axios, highlighting the pressure lawmakers face.

Following Radical Examples 

Some voters point to actions like those of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.), who faced legal trouble for confronting ICE at a detention facility. These incidents are cited as models for defying Trump’s agenda, with one anonymous liberal arguing, “civility isn’t working,” urging lawmakers to embrace riskier confrontations.

Republican Response 

Republicans are sounding the alarm over these developments. “This is what happens when a party loses its way—resorting to calls for violence instead of ideas,” said Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas) in a statement to Fox News. 

“Americans want leadership, not chaos.” The GOP sees this as a sign of Democratic desperation, with Trump’s policies—like the “Big, Beautiful Bill”—gaining traction despite opposition.

Looking Forward 

As Democrats face the 2026 midterms, their flirtation with violent rhetoric risks alienating voters further. With Trump’s agenda advancing, the party must decide whether to double down on division or seek a constructive path forward.