Democrat rising star takes aim at his own party over Trump resistance

Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., has been on a whirlwind tour across the country in recent months, leading the charge in amplifying the Democratic Party’s message in opposing President Donald Trump’s controversial actions in overturning longstanding government policies and reducing the federal workforce. However, Khanna, a fifth-term congressman from California who may have national aspirations in 2028, is not only criticizing Trump and Vice President JD Vance but also his own party.

“We need to completely rebrand the Democratic Party with a cohesive and forward-thinking platform, and many leaders need to step up and do that. We need new leaders, not the old guard. And I hope to be a part of that,” Khanna stated in an interview with Fox News Digital.

Khanna emphasized the need for party leaders to be more vocal in resisting the Trump administration’s actions. “We need more from our leadership. If you’re not willing to speak out against someone being deported without due process, then you shouldn’t be in office as a Democrat right now. We need Democrats to speak out on civil liberties, immigrant rights, and university rights, not just the economy,” he added.

While critiquing his party, Khanna also commended recent efforts by other Democratic leaders, such as Sen. Cory Booker’s marathon Senate floor speech and the rallies led by Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. These events have energized the Democratic base, which has been increasingly frustrated with the party’s perceived lack of effectiveness in countering the Trump administration.

Following the Democrats’ losses in the last election cycle, Khanna acknowledged the party’s need to regroup and rebuild. Polls have shown declining favorability ratings for the Democratic Party, as well as low confidence in the party’s congressional leadership. Looking ahead to the midterm elections next year, Khanna expressed confidence in the party’s ability to regain ground, particularly in red districts.

Khanna has been actively campaigning in various states, including red districts, to rally support for Democratic candidates. He has also focused his attention on Vice President JD Vance, delivering speeches critical of him in Ohio and at Yale Law School. When asked if his attacks on Vance were aimed at positioning himself for the 2028 elections, Khanna stressed that his goal is to provide an intellectual foundation for the Democratic Party.

As Rep. Ro Khanna continues to advocate for a new direction for the Democratic Party, his efforts reflect a broader push within the party to redefine its platform and messaging in response to the challenges posed by the Trump administration. With the 2022 midterm elections on the horizon, Khanna’s leadership and vision could play a key role in shaping the party’s future.