Sen. Bernie Sanders has firmly rejected James Carville’s advice for Democrats to take a passive approach against the Trump administration. Instead, Sanders is pushing for an active stance in defending working-class interests and opposing what he calls the growing influence of billionaires in politics.

Sen. Bernie Sanders has openly dismissed veteran Democratic strategist James Carville’s advice that Democrats should “play dead” while waiting for Trump’s popularity to decline. Sanders argues that Democrats have already been too passive for too long.
Carville’s Controversial Strategy for Democrats
James Carville, in a guest essay for The New York Times, proposed that Democrats should strategically retreat and allow Republicans to fail under their own policies. He suggested that only after Trump’s approval ratings drop should Democrats take aggressive action.
Sanders Calls for a Strong Opposition
In response, Sanders emphasized the need for Democrats to actively oppose the Trump administration’s policies. He particularly criticized the growing influence of billionaires, including Elon Musk, in shaping national policies, urging the Democratic Party to stand firm for working-class Americans.
A Focus on Battleground States
Sanders is currently leading a tour in key battleground districts, aiming to mobilize voters against what he describes as an “oligarchy” controlling the country’s economy and political system. He believes that grassroots mobilization is the key to countering Trump’s influence.
Democratic Party at a Crossroads
The debate between Carville’s passive approach and Sanders’ active resistance highlights a strategic divide within the Democratic Party. With the 2026 midterms on the horizon, the party must decide whether to adopt a wait-and-see approach or take immediate action to rally opposition.
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