ABSTRACT
The United States is entrenched in a “war” with COVID-19. The virus appears in the public conversation through metaphors around victory and battle, comparisons of ventilators to missile production, and Donald Trump taking the mantle of a “war-time president.” Electoral realignments occur when voters organize and/or reorganize into another political party. Such moments in national elections are exceedingly rare. A compelling narrative for the future will bring people together by focusing on the values of community, interconnectedness, and care for everyone. It will affirm the fact that these values can be embodied in policies and investments that create a stronger country: economic safety nets, deep equitable access to good health care, and safe for all. President Trump has his base and conservative movement squarely behind him. All Democratic candidates must be bold in unleashing a movement and political operation that builds and turns out the new coalitions of voters ready for progressive change and to rebuild the United States.
