Episode 37: The 2024 Election – Postmortem and What Comes Next with Jeremy S. Adams

Episode 37: The 2024 Election – Postmortem and What Comes Next with Jeremy S. Adams

In this episode of Elevated Thoughts, Mike and I welcomed back Jeremy S. Adams, an educator, political observer, and author of Hollowed Out: A Warning About America’s Next Generation. With his sharp insights and unique perspective as a high school teacher on the West Coast, Jeremy joined us to dissect the aftermath of the 2024 election, explore the evolving political landscape, and discuss what lies ahead for both major parties in the U.S.

A Resounding Political Shift

The conversation began with a postmortem of the 2024 election, which saw significant shifts in voter demographics and key battleground states. Jeremy analyzed the underlying causes of the Democratic Party’s losses, pointing to a breakdown in their traditional coalition. From working-class voters abandoning the party to underwhelming turnout among progressives, the election highlighted growing discontent with the Democratic platform.

Jeremy offered particular insight into three demographic groups he had closely monitored: Hispanic voters, Black men, and Jewish voters. While some trends remained steady—such as Jewish Americans’ continued support for Democrats—others were strikingly different. Trump’s appeal to Hispanic men and younger Black voters demonstrated the GOP’s ability to capitalize on cultural and economic frustrations.

The Culture Disconnect

A recurring theme throughout the episode was the Democratic Party’s disconnect with working-class voters. Jeremy shared his observations on how cultural issues, such as the use of terms like “Latinx,” alienate traditional Democratic bases. Many voters feel patronized by progressive rhetoric and out of touch with policies that prioritize ideological purity over pragmatic solutions.

We also discussed how economic concerns, such as inflation and wage stagnation, have exacerbated this disconnect. For working-class Americans, promises of equity and progressive reforms ring hollow when day-to-day challenges like rising costs and job insecurity remain unaddressed. As Jeremy put it, “Democrats are speaking the language of universities, not the language of everyday Americans.”

Trump’s Winning Strategy

On the other side of the aisle, Trump’s strategy in 2024 leaned heavily on energizing low-propensity voters—particularly younger men disillusioned with traditional politics. Jeremy noted how Trump’s use of media platforms like Joe Rogan’s podcast and his ability to tap into online communities helped him build a coalition that cut across traditional party lines. This “bro voter” strategy, as Jeremy called it, proved highly effective in key states like Florida and Ohio, delivering decisive wins for the GOP.

The conversation also touched on the role of foreign policy in the election. Trump’s continued focus on America-first policies, including tariffs and a strong stance on border security, resonated with voters concerned about national sovereignty and economic competitiveness. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party struggled to articulate a cohesive vision, often appearing reactive rather than proactive on global issues.

A Moment for Reflection

As the dust settles, Jeremy emphasized the importance of self-reflection for both parties. For Democrats, the 2024 election should serve as a wake-up call to reconnect with their base and address structural issues within the party. For Republicans, the challenge lies in governing effectively while resisting the temptation to overreach.

We concluded the episode by discussing the broader implications of the election for American democracy. Jeremy voiced concerns about the growing tribalism in politics, where compromise and coalition-building are increasingly rare. He urged both sides to prioritize unity and to focus on policies that benefit all Americans, rather than pandering to narrow constituencies.

Final Thoughts

This episode was a thought-provoking exploration of the 2024 election and its impact on the future of American politics. Jeremy’s insights as both an educator and a political observer offered a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the nation. As always, we hope this conversation inspires our listeners to think critically, stay engaged, and seek common ground in these divisive times.

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