Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna Calls for Party ‘Rebirth’ Amid Calls for Reforms
In a compelling speech at the Voters of Tomorrow Summit for young progressives, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) urged the Democratic Party to undergo a ‘rebirth,’ directly criticizing the party’s entrenched establishment and the growing influence of big money in politics. His remarks were delivered during a pivotal moment for the party, as it seeks to navigate the aftermath of the 2024 elections and prepare for the 2026 race, which is expected to be a key test of its ability to mobilize voters, particularly among Gen Z.
Khanna’s address, which drew a large audience of young Democrats, focused on the urgent need to reform the Democratic Party to better serve the American people. ‘How can we trust government to do big things when government has been corrupted?’ he asked. ‘My friends, for those who want a progressive future, for those who want a government that works to build security and opportunity for the working class, we must get rid of the big money in politics.’ Khanna’s words resonated with many in the crowd, emphasizing the deepening divide between the party’s more traditional establishment and its younger, more progressive base.
Khanna also drew attention to the ongoing controversy surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein case, which has become a major point of debate in Washington. While some demand further inquiry into the matter, Khanna used it as a rallying point to call for greater transparency and reform. ‘The release of the Epstein files is not a magic cure for trust, but it is a first step. It’s a first step to say we will have a new era of transparency,’ he said. His remarks pointed to the importance of accountability in restoring public confidence in government.
Alongside Khanna, former Vice President Kamala Harris and Speaker Nancy Pelosi also addressed the summit, providing a broad overview of the party’s current strategy and future goals. Pelosi, in particular, expressed confidence in the party’s ability to win the House of Representatives in the next cycle. ‘We have no doubt that we will win the election with the House of Representatives,’ she said. ‘No doubt.’
She also emphasized the need for strong messaging and mobilization, acknowledging the challenges of regaining public trust in an increasingly polarized political climate. Her comments aligned with the broader theme of the summit, which focused on the importance of uniting the party’s diverse coalition, particularly among younger voters who are becoming a crucial demographic for future Democratic elections.
Meanwhile, Khanna’s call for a ‘rebirth’ of the party found support among many younger Democrats, including freshman Arizona Rep. Yassamin Ansari and Illinois congressional candidate Kat Abughazaleh, who both participated in panels at the summit. Their presence underscored the growing influence of younger, more progressive voices in the party’s leadership and strategy.
However, the call for a more radical transformation of the Democratic Party was not without its challenges. While some within the party have encouraged a more moderate tone, others have echoed Khanna’s populist sentiment, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the party’s more traditional establishment and its younger, more progressive wing. The summit served as a microcosm of these broader ideological battles within the Democratic Party.
As the party prepares for the 2026 elections, the stakes for its ability to adapt to new voter demographics and political realities have never been higher. Khanna’s call for a ‘rebirth’ is a clear signal that the party must not only redefine its message but also its structure and leadership if it is to remain competitive in an increasingly diverse and dynamic political landscape.