David Axelrod, a seasoned Democratic strategist, has voiced his belief that President-elect Trump appears unwilling to collaborate with Democrats on bipartisan initiatives. Axelrod cited Trump’s history during his first term and recent social media activity as evidence of this reluctance.
Speaking on CNN Monday night, Axelrod highlighted Trump’s campaign promises, which included ending foreign wars, reducing the cost of goods, addressing crime, and securing the southern border. Despite these pledges, Axelrod questioned Trump’s ability to foster cooperation across party lines.
“If he accomplishes those goals, more power to him, and it would benefit the nation,” Axelrod remarked during CNN’s “AC360.” He added that bipartisan collaboration would be a positive step if achievable. However, Axelrod pointed out that Trump’s past actions do not indicate a strong willingness to engage with Democrats.
Axelrod emphasized that Trump’s social media posts reflect his ongoing grievances and hostility toward his opponents. He suggested Trump would benefit from prioritizing broader goals over personal disputes. “It’s in everyone’s interest for him to focus on working with others where possible. Time will tell if he chooses to do so,” Axelrod said.
Recent months have seen Trump ramping up criticism of Democrats, particularly after his victory over Vice President Harris in the 2024 election. In November, Trump argued that the Democratic Party is out of sync with the nation’s values.
Despite his criticisms, Trump’s victory speech carried a message of unity. Speaking from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, he called for all Americans to join him in moving past divisions, emphasizing that collective success could unite the nation. “We must leave behind the divides of the past four years,” Trump declared. “We’re going to make it happen by putting America first.”
Trump expressed confidence that success would foster unity, pointing to moments from his first term when he believed progress brought people together. He reiterated that his administration’s focus on prioritizing the country would lay the groundwork for unity.
Some Democrats have signaled a willingness to work with Trump and the GOP on select issues. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer mentioned on Sunday that he and other Democrats are open to negotiating a deal for DACA recipients.In addition, certain progressives in Congress, including Senator Bernie Sanders and Representa
tive Ro Khanna, have expressed interest in collaborating with Republicans on reducing the Pentagon’s budget. High defense spending has faced bipartisan scrutiny, creating potential areas for cooperation.
