Trump’s unorthodox message and populist appeal, the Democrats warn, could erode their hold on working-class support and jeopardize their chances in a year when voter disenchantment with Washington is being felt nationwide.
“I’ve been saying for months that we should never take Trump lightly and that I do think he has appeal, to independents and blue-collar Democrats especially,” said Rep. John Larson (D-Conn.), former head of the House Democratic Caucus. “He is stoking the fears. … He comes along and says, ‘I’m a deal maker, I’m about getting the deal done.’ And they’re so fed up of seeing nothing getting done and want to see him [act] on the issues that strike to the core of their feelings.”

Larson predicted his preferred candidate, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, would prevail over Trump once he’s forced to delve more deeply into policy issues. But it won’t be without a fight.

“In a race against Hillary, on the stage, drawing a bright spotlight on him and drilling down is the way that he’s going to be beat, and I think she’ll beat him. But for us to take him lightly would be the worst mistake in the world,” Larson said.