Jim Messina is taking his and his team’s insights and battle-tested lessons to Substack. His first post, The 1988 Trap, delivers a warning Democrats can’t afford to ignore heading into 2028.
In 1988, Democrats assumed victory after eight years of Reagan. But Michael Dukakis—who seemed destined to win—ended up losing badly. Why? He never offered a clear economic vision, failed to project strength, and struggled to connect with voters’ values.
Jim argues the same mistakes are looming again. Being “anti-Trump” won’t be enough. If Democrats want to win in 2028, they need a sharp, memorable economic message, leaders who project competence and confidence, and authentic values that resonate beyond the base.
This isn’t nostalgia—it’s a fire alarm. Go read it now.