Introduction

The dust has barely settled on the 2024 U.S. presidential election, and Donald Trump already claims a “mandate” to govern. But does he really have the overwhelming support he says he does? The truth is far more complicated—and reveals critical lessons for protecting democracy and understanding the power of informed action.

Does Trump Really Have a Mandate? Let’s Look at the Facts

Donald Trump won the Electoral College, but his popular vote share—49.87%—isn’t a majority. It’s a slim plurality. While he swept many swing states, the numbers tell a different story than the one he’s sharing. Historically, claims of a “mandate” are often more about justifying power than reflecting true public support.

Political scholar Julie Azari notes that mandates are frequently used in polarized times to create an illusion of legitimacy. Leaders lean on this narrative to bolster their position, even when public trust or approval isn’t on their side. The truth? Claims of a mandate don’t necessarily align with reality—and this election is a perfect example.

Fair Elections Are the Cornerstone of Democracy

Fair maps and voting rights are essential to ensuring every voice is heard. Organizations like All On The Line have been at the forefront of this fight, advocating for just redistricting and fair elections. Their work has made a difference, especially in states like Alabama and Louisiana, where redrawn maps led to historic wins for diverse representation.

The fight isn’t over, though. Gerrymandering and voter suppression remain significant challenges. However, as the 2024 election showed, grassroots efforts can push back against these injustices and build momentum for change.

The Misinformation Machine: What Really Happened

This election wasn’t just about votes but the battle for truth. A massive misinformation campaign, linked to Elon Musk, spread misleading ads targeting different communities with contradictory messages.

For instance, Muslims in Michigan saw ads praising Kamala Harris for supporting Israel. At the same time, Jewish voters in Pennsylvania were told the opposite—that Harris wanted to stop arms shipments to Israel. These ads weren’t designed to inform; they were crafted to confuse and suppress voter support for Harris.

This manipulation shows just how critical investigative journalism and vigilance are. Without them, it’s all too easy for disinformation to shape outcomes.

What Democrats Need to Learn From 2024

The Democratic Party must face some hard truths. Despite their efforts, economic appeals alone didn’t resonate enough with voters. Cultural and social issues played a bigger role than they anticipated. Articles like Damon Linker’s “Kamala Harris Failed to Read the Room” highlight this misstep.

It’s not that Democrats ignored working-class voters; they just misunderstood how deeply cultural disagreements—on issues like immigration and transgender rights—would impact the election. The party needs to rethink how it connects with voters and rebuilds trust.

How We Move Forward: Lessons for Everyone

Peter Wehner’s article in The Atlantic lays out a powerful framework for what comes next. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Speak the Truth: Lies thrive when no one calls them out. We have to stand up for the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable.
2. Stay Civil: Opposing injustice doesn’t mean losing our humanity. We can fight for what’s right without becoming bitter or cynical.
3. Learn From Defeat: Setbacks are opportunities to reassess and grow. It’s time to listen to what voters are saying.
4. Hold Onto Hope: Hope isn’t just about circumstances—it’s a mindset. When we act with hope, we create the possibility for change.

Ripples of Change: A Call to Action

Robert F. Kennedy once said, “Each time a man stands up for an ideal or acts to improve the lot of others, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope.” These ripples can become waves, shaping the future for the better.

We’re at a critical moment in history. The 2024 election is a wake-up call, reminding us how fragile democracy can be. But it’s also a call to action. By standing for truth, fairness, and justice, we can make a difference—not just in politics, but in the lives of everyday people.

Conclusion

This isn’t the time to lose heart. It’s the time to lean in, to speak up, and to act. The lessons of 2024 are clear: democracy requires all of us to protect it. Whether it’s supporting fair maps, calling out misinformation, or simply staying informed, every action counts. Together, we can ensure the ripples of hope grow into the waves of change we so desperately need.

References for Podcast 108:

• The Conversations’s newsletter (us.newsletter@the conversation.com) on November 22, 2024, at 9:18 am, by Naomi Schalit, Senior Editor, Politics + Democracy. (You will need to sign up for their newsletter. If you want a copy, you can make a request to me at jackalyn@dtpleadership.com.)
• The Washington Post, Amber Phillips, Friday November 22, 2024, 4:00 pm, Does Trump actually have a mandate? Not really.”https://www.washingtonpost.com/newsletters/the-5-minute-fix
• Biz, All On The Line, allontheline@redistricitngaction.org, on Thursday, November 21, 2024, 3:04 PM entitled “Moral arcs don’t bend with certainty.” (Get on their email list—this is a organization that you will want to support—they challenge gerrymandering all over America and they win.)
• The Washington Post on November 15, 2024, at 5:00 am EST by Michael Scherer and Josh Dawsey “Inside the Republican false—flag effort to turn off Kamala Harris voters. https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/11/15/republican-ads-false-flag
• The Washington Post, November 17, 2024, at 7:00 AM EST by Ramesh Ponnuru entitled “The Democrats weren’t stupid or crazy—just wrong.” https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2024/11/17/democratic-party-election-loss-wrong
• The New York Times article by Damon Linker on November 7, 2024, entitled “Kamala Harris Failed to Read the Room.”