Dec 2, 2024, 4:46 PM CST
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He is a newly announced candidate to lead the Democratic National Committee. Ben Wikler is currently the Wisconsin Democratic Party chair and decided to put his name in the ring for the national position because he believes in the future of the party. Wikler joins Earl Ingram, host of The Earl Ingram Show, for one of the first radio interviews since making his decision public. They discuss his vision for year-round organizing and a shared commitment to the party’s core values of freedom, dignity, and economic justice for all.
I believe in bringing Wisconsin’s organizing success to the national stage. And most important of all is the opportunity to build a coalition that works for everyone.
Ben Wikler, candidate to lead the DNC
“The number one thing voters are telling us,” Wikler explains, “is frustration with skyrocketing prices and feeling left behind. Democrats must fight for everyone. I’m talking about working people, rural communities, and all marginalized groups, while resisting the temptation to point fingers or fracture internally.”
Ingram shares his perspective as a Black man who has witnessed 11 presidential elections. And he says he is frustrated with the narrative that Democrats failed rural voters.
LISTEN to the entire interview here:
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“Key figures prevented the Biden administration from delivering on critical economic policies,” Ingram says.
Wikler agrees and points out that Republicans are quick to attack then fail to govern in ways that help everyday Americans.
“Republicans run on one message but govern for the ultra-wealthy,” Wikler says. “Trump’s agenda delivered tax cuts for billionaires and Supreme Court justices who rolled back fundamental freedoms. Meanwhile, Democrats fight for a fair economy and shared prosperity.”
Ingram asks Wikler if the Democratic Party can unite. Wikler proposes a combination of self-reflection and strategic action. He points out the importance of data-driven analyses to understand electoral outcomes and emphasizes the role of high-profile fights like Wisconsin’s upcoming Supreme Court race.
“These battles define us,” Wikler says. “When Democrats rally around shared values and take the fight to every corner of the country, we win.”
Ingram closed the interview with a critical question about the Democratic brand. Wikler also acknowledges there is an issue around the Democratic brand. He believes GOP propaganda is distorting public perception, but reaffirms his belief that when voters hear Democrats’ authentic message, they respond.
“We’re the party of freedom, dignity, and opportunity,” Wikler explains. “If we can amplify that and stay true to our values, we will unite and win.”
The interview showcases the urgency for maintaining Democratic principles while adapting to the shifting political terrain.
“I believe in bringing Wisconsin’s organizing success to the national stage,” Wikler says. “And most important of all is the opportunity to build a coalition that works for everyone.”
WATCH the entire show. Wikler joins Ingram at 1:01:30 here:
