After Florida’s dramatic shift from a swing state to a red state, how do Democrats rebuild? How do we build support for the issues that will make Floridians’ lives better?

Those who solely blame racism and misogyny in their analysis for the results of the presidential election – that is, the loss a black and asian woman — I don’t see the whole picture. While it will be months before we have all the data to dissect, the results we already have point to much larger issues at play: Many Floridians feel unheard and frustrated by the status quo — and understandably so. Despite job growth and historically low unemployment, millions of families pay too much for rent, groceries and other essentials – and they voted in the hope that something would change.

I don’t think the Republicans have the answers to higher prices. Like most economic experts, I think so the policies that Trump has said he will implement will drive up prices. But it’s also clear that my party has lost the messaging war: nationally, obviously, but also in Florida.

The issue is bigger than a particular candidate or campaign tactic. My party has to take a beating, he admits global headwinds that have been brutal for incumbent parties post-pandemic and to recognize that there are very real changes that we need to implement in order to win the trust of voters.

Florida is home to more than 22 million people and one of the most diverse and growing populations in the country. For years, Republicans have done a better job when it comes to continuous, uninterrupted community outreach and voter registration throughout the year. Such a presence in the community builds genuine relationships and credibility. But it takes investment to support this kind of organization, and Democrats and their donors haven’t prioritized this work in Florida in any real way since 2012.

As a result, the registration gap increased significantly during that period. Beyond the electoral impact, the ripple effect also means that communities that once felt comfortable voting for Democrats have changed, leaving us less equipped to listen and respond to residents’ needs and concerns.

Democrats can’t just show up looking for votes and expect to be welcomed with open arms. That the Miami-Dade County example show, we can’t assume certain communities are part of our “base” when we haven’t done the work to build the necessary trust.

We have lost public trust, even as unchecked Republican leadership has failed to improve the lives of the people of this state. Instead of focusing on issues like lowering the cost of living, increasing access to affordable health care, and making us more prepared and resilient in the face of more dangerous hurricanes, Republicans have engaged in the culture wars: railing against Disney and women’s studies departmentscons gay people and what they call “awakening”.

But while Republicans haven’t effectively addressed issues that resonate with ordinary people, neither have Democrats. Democrats need to articulate clear, actionable plans that directly address these challenges. This means advocating for policies that not only promise help, but also actively involve the voices of those most affected by these issues.

Perhaps the biggest challenge is changing perceptions about what it means to be a Democrat in Florida. The party must work diligently to show that it is not out of touch with Floridians and that it truly values ​​their input. This could involve more diverse representation within the party itself, ensuring that the leadership reflects the state’s diverse population. When people see themselves represented, then they are more likely to engage and participate.

As we look to the future, we would do well to reassess our strategic priorities. This is a moment that calls for urgency, innovation and a commitment to serving the voices that have been sidelined for too long. Progress is not linear and we must remain engaged to secure the future we want to see for our country.