During an interview on Next Question with Katie Couric, Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., addressed the impact of extreme left-wing proposals on the Democratic Party’s approval ratings. Kelly identified calls to abolish police, eliminate prisons and borders, and defund the Pentagon as detrimental to the party’s image because voters often associate these positions with Democrats.
“There are folks out there that say things that just don’t make sense to the American people, like abolish the police or get rid of jails and prisons, get rid of the border, defund the Pentagon,” Kelly stated.
Couric inquired about whether the ideological split within the Democratic Party might harm candidates in the upcoming midterm elections and the 2028 presidential race. Kelly acknowledged the risk, adding, “It could cost us some seats. I think that’s very, very possible.”
Kelly distanced himself from the party’s progressive wing, expressing concern that voters might incorrectly attribute far-left positions to all Democrats, including himself. “Some of them, I think, associate it with Democrats,” Kelly noted. “That’s not the Democratic Party I’m in. Those aren’t the policies I support.”
Kelly’s comments followed concerning polling data for Democratic leaders. A Fox News poll in April showed 42% of registered voters had a favorable view of the Democratic Party, while 58% had an unfavorable view. Additionally, 61% believed Democrats were focused on the wrong issues. May’s Quinnipiac University poll found only 20% of voters approved of Democrats in Congress, with disapproval at 72%. Among Democratic voters themselves, approval stood at 41% with disapproval at 50%.
Kelly blamed associations with fringe positions for potential losses in midterm elections.
His remarks came after Democratic socialist candidates had shown strong performances in recent primaries. DSA-backed Melat Kiros won against incumbent Rep. Diana DeGette, D-Colo., and DSA member Darializa Avila Chevalier prevailed over veteran Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y. Claire Valdez, endorsed by DSA, won in New York’s Democratic primary to replace retiring Rep. Nydia Velázquez, D-N.Y.
The Arizona Democrat remains open to a 2028 presidential campaign. His wife, former Rep. Gabby Giffords, supports the idea, emphasizing the importance of public service. “If we conclude I’m the right person for this and my family’s on board, we’ll also consider what it takes,” Kelly explained.
Kelly has developed a political network that can support a national campaign. He redirected millions towards candidates he deemed electable and steered clear of campaigns centered on impractical proposals. “I have the ability to raise money. I’m pretty good at that. I have raised or given away combined $10 million during this election cycle,” Kelly pointed out, emphasizing his focus on practical political operations.
Despite challenges, a recent poll indicates Democrats leading Republicans by seven points among registered voters, 53% to 46%. Motivation to vote is high among Democrats at 68%, compared to 57% of Republicans. This is the highest support for Democrats in Fox News’ generic congressional ballot since 1996.