The article from The New Yorker discusses the results of recent elections in deeply conservative Missouri, where voters made progressive choices by enshrining abortion rights and approving a $15 minimum wage with sick leave guarantees, despite overwhelming support for Republican candidates like senator Josh Hawley. These ballot measures signal a shift in voter priorities that both political parties must acknowledge. While younger Republicans are increasingly advocating for a populist economic agenda, Democrats are criticized for their failure to consistently support core economic issues that resonate with working-class voters, leading to a disconnect in public perception of their policies. The piece emphasizes the importance of responding to voter needs with substantive economic policies, cautioning Democrats that their current approach risks alienating the electorate they aim to serve.

Key Points:

• Missouri voters supported progressive measures despite re-electing Republican senator Josh Hawley.
• Voters enshrined abortion rights and approved a $15 minimum wage along with sick leave guarantees.
• Young Republicans are pushing for a more economically populist agenda.
• Democrats have lost touch with key economic issues, leading to confusion about their brand among voters.
• The Biden administration's inaction on raising the federal minimum wage has contributed to voter disillusionment.
• The article highlights a shift towards progressive values, even in traditionally conservative states, signaling a demand for stronger economic policies.
• California's minimum wage initiative faced challenges, underscoring the risks for Democrats in regaining the working-class vote.
  Link to Article