FLINT, Mich. — Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin addressed the challenges faced by Democrats in crafting a unified strategy against President Donald Trump’s agenda, noting that while vocal opposition from some progressive Democrats has been prominent, it has not effectively stalled the president’s actions.
During a town hall meeting in Flint, Michigan, Slotkin responded to a constituent’s inquiry about what steps Democrats could take aside from continuing their opposition to the administration. This conversation reflects the ongoing internal debate within the party on how to effectively counter the administration, especially given their minority status in both legislative chambers.
“I understand the appeal of vocal protests,” Slotkin remarked. “However, those words alone aren’t halting the initiatives being implemented by Donald Trump.”
The inquiry, posed by Kristin Fellows, a 62-year-old constituent, pressed Slotkin alongside Democratic U.S. Representative Kristen McDonald Rivet, urging them to take a stand against Trump similar to what progressive Democrats like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have done.
“We know you’re opposed to these dismal events unfolding globally, but merely telling us this isn’t sufficient,” Fellows asserted. Her question was presented during a session aimed at addressing cuts to federal agencies by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency and the subsequent impacts on social services such as Medicaid. Her remarks received the session’s first applause.
Slotkin emphasized her commitment to her constituents, some of whom supported Trump, and stressed the importance of responding to their needs amid federal changes and executive orders.
While Sanders has engaged in a nationwide campaign opposing Trump, Ocasio-Cortez, a steadfast Sanders supporter, has signaled her intention to join the tour in upcoming weeks.
“My responsibilities extend beyond activism,” Slotkin explained. “When there’s an immigration raid, I must be ready to assist and locate those impacted. My role demands actions beyond just being an ‘AOC.'” Her response elicited applause from the audience.
Both Slotkin and McDonald Rivet have been instrumental in delivering Democratic victories in a key battleground state where Trump clinched a win in the recent election. They are seen as potential exemplars for a future Democratic Party more aligned to the center than the progressive side.
Slotkin acknowledged the lack of consensus among Democrats on how to tackle Republican control of Congress and Trump’s presidency, referencing a divided Senate vote on the GOP’s funding bill. Slotkin opted not to support the bill, though it found backing from 10 Democrats, including their Leader Chuck Schumer.
When questioned about whether Schumer should remain in his leadership role, Slotkin commented, “Sen. Schumer is our leader; it’s a challenging responsibility.”