The Couch Room: David Hogg on Democratic Renewal

Dr. Bennett: "Good evening and welcome to this special live edition of The Couch Room. I'm Dr. Marcus Bennett, and tonight we're exploring the future of the Democratic Party with one of the most compelling voices of a new generation of political activists. David Hogg first gained national attention as a survivor of the Parkland school shooting in 2018, co-founding March For Our Lives at just 17 years old. Today, he serves as Vice Chair of the Democratic National Committee and has recently launched Leaders We Deserve, an initiative that has sparked intense debate within Democratic circles. David, thank you for joining us tonight."

Hogg: "Thank you for having me, Dr. Bennett. I'm excited to be here and to share our vision with your audience."

Dr. Bennett: "I'd like to start with your personal journey. How did surviving the Parkland shooting shape your political worldview and lead you to where you are today?"

Hogg: "My political journey began in the aftermath of tragedy. I survived the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting when I was 17, and that experience fundamentally changed my perspective on politics and power. I saw firsthand how our political system fails to address preventable tragedies, how politicians offer 'thoughts and prayers' but take little meaningful action."

Hogg: "What I learned through that experience is that the system doesn't change unless you force it to change. We can't just accept the status quo or believe that incremental approaches will solve existential problems. Whether it's gun violence, climate change, economic inequality, or threats to democracy itself, we need leaders who will fight with the urgency these issues demand."

Hogg: "The March For Our Lives movement was born from that realization. We organized one of the largest youth protests in American history and helped pass significant gun safety legislation in states across the country. But we also learned that single-issue activism, while important, isn't enough. We need to transform the entire political system."

Dr. Bennett: "That leads us to your current initiative, Leaders We Deserve. You've announced plans to spend $20 million to primary Democratic incumbents in safe blue districts, which has caused quite a stir. What's the diagnosis that led you to take this controversial approach?"

Hogg: "The Democratic Party is suffering a legitimacy crisis. Our approval rating is at 27% – not just overall, but among our own base. That is not a survivable future for our party. People are losing faith in our party and they're losing faith in democracy across the country."

Hogg: "The data is clear: Democrats lost voting share with virtually every demographic in 2024 except older and highly educated voters—a trend that's unsustainable for building majority coalitions. Our base is craving dramatic change. Too many elected leaders are unwilling or unable to meet the moment and are asleep at the wheel while Trump is demolishing the economy, challenging the foundations of our democracy, and creating new existential crises for our country by the day."

Hogg: "The party's defensive messaging strategy has failed us. It gives voters someone to vote against but not for. We need to show people the way that Democrats fight for democracy is by using democracy to revive the American dream."

Dr. Bennett: "You're describing what political psychologists would call a democratic legitimacy crisis—when people no longer believe that democratic institutions are responsive to their needs or capable of solving their problems. How does your initiative address this crisis of faith in democratic governance?"

Hogg: "That's exactly it. For my generation, democracy hasn't delivered. We've known nothing but school shootings, climate disasters, economic precarity, endless wars, and political dysfunction. Unlike older generations who experienced democratic achievements like the moon landing, Cold War victory, or periods of broad prosperity, Gen Z has known primarily democratic failure and gridlock."

Hogg: "Central to my philosophy is the belief that democracy must tangibly improve people's lives or it risks becoming meaningless to those it claims to serve. We need to use democratic institutions to deliver concrete benefits: affordable healthcare access, housing security, childcare and education without crushing debt, freedom from gun violence, climate action that creates sustainable futures."

Hogg: "Leaders We Deserve is about electing Democrats who understand this fundamental truth—that we need to prove democracy matters by standing up to the special interests that are killing the American dream. We need representatives who will fight with urgency and courage for policies that make a material difference in people's lives."

Dr. Bennett: "Let's take a question from the audience. Yes, the woman in the red jacket."

Audience Member 1: "Mr. Hogg, critics argue that primarying Democratic incumbents could be divisive and drain resources needed to defeat Republicans. How do you respond to that concern?"

Hogg: "That's a fair question, and one I take very seriously. Let me be crystal clear: we are only targeting safe Democratic seats. We will not challenge any Democrats in competitive districts. We want Democrats to win the majority—I want Hakeem Jeffries to be the next Speaker of the House."

Hogg: "But here's the reality: it's going to be a hell of a lot harder for us to beat Republicans with a 27 percent approval rating. We need to give voters something to vote for, not just against. And that means having effective messengers who can articulate a compelling vision."

Hogg: "And let's address another key point: this isn't a circular firing squad—this is using the democratic process to strengthen our party. Primaries are a healthy part of democracy. Many of our current leaders, including Speaker Jeffries, got to where they are by successfully primarying other Democrats. We should embrace this process, not fear it."

Hogg: "One more thing—our efforts are focused on rejuvenating the Democratic Party so it can win future elections. This is a long-term investment in building a party that can consistently win majorities by inspiring voters with a clear vision and effective representation."

Dr. Bennett: "You've mentioned 'effective' Democrats several times. How do you define 'effectiveness' in this context?"

Hogg: "We need different characters in our party. There's this conversation that happens around our messaging all the time. People say, 'It's the messaging, it's the messaging, it's the messaging.' But here's the truth: 'You can have Shakespeare write the best script—if you have bad actors, it doesn't matter.'"

Hogg: "By effectiveness, I mean a willingness to fight back against what's happening—to show courage in challenging moments. Look at Senator Van Hollen going to El Salvador to advocate for someone wrongfully deported by the Trump administration. That's the kind of leadership we need—not just saying, 'Well, we don't have power, we can't do anything.'"

Hogg: "This is absolutely not just about age. There are people of all ages who are effective, and people of all ages who aren't. We're not here to replace the old with the new. We're here to replace the ineffective with the effective."

Hogg: "I have enormous respect for leaders like Nancy Pelosi and Jan Schakowsky who have spent years fighting against Donald Trump. They've delivered results—passing the first gun law in 30 years, securing the largest climate spending in human history. They're precisely the kind of effective leaders we need."

Dr. Bennett: "While you've emphasized that this isn't primarily about age, you have spoken about generational representation. How important is age diversity in democratic governance?"

Hogg: "It's critically important. Right now, if Congress demographically reflected America, it would have over 40 members under 30. Currently, we have just one—Maxwell Frost. This representation gap affects policy, priorities, and the party's connection to younger voters."

Hogg: "Historical examples show that young political leaders often became transformative figures precisely because they gained experience early. Biden was first elected at 29. LBJ entered Congress in his 20s. FDR began his political career in his 20s."

Hogg: "We need a diverse coalition of ages—older mentors there to show our young people how to work through the system and younger people there with new ideas and energy. What we're proposing isn't a youth takeover—it's age diversity that better reflects America."

Hogg: "And this isn't just about fairness—it's about effectiveness. Young Americans face a unique set of challenges that are often difficult for older representatives to fully grasp. Having their perspective in the halls of power is essential for developing policies that work for everyone."

Dr. Bennett: "Let's take another question from the audience. The gentleman in the blue shirt."

Audience Member 2: "Mr. Hogg, your initiative requires substantial funding. Can you talk about your approach to campaign finance and whether corporate money influences the Democratic Party?"

Hogg: "That's a crucial question. A core element of our philosophy is opposing the influence of corporate money in politics. All Leaders We Deserve candidates must reject corporate PAC money. We're funding our initiative primarily through small-dollar grassroots donations because we believe corporate influence is a primary driver of democratic dysfunction."

Hogg: "There's a direct connection between economic inequality and democratic disillusionment. What we have to do is prove democracy matters by standing up to the special interests that are killing the American dream."

Hogg: "The influence of money in politics prevents action on issues that would benefit the majority but threaten corporate interests. Campaign finance reform isn't just about fairness—it's about enabling democracy to actually deliver results on healthcare, climate, education, and gun violence."

Hogg: "And let's be clear—we're up against massive financial interests. We're asking our candidates to reject corporate PAC money at a time when campaigns are more expensive than ever. But we believe that people-powered campaigns can win, and we're building the infrastructure to make that possible."

Dr. Bennett: "Your initiative has faced significant criticism, particularly from establishment figures like James Carville, who called you a 'contemptible little twerp' and suggested suing you. How do you respond to this kind of backlash?"

Hogg: "I anticipated this kind of resistance. When you challenge the status quo, those who benefit from it will fight back. I am not in this position because I want to bank my political capital. I just want change."

Hogg: "As for Mr. Carville specifically—he has not won an election since before I was born. Carville believes in a politics of being timid, of hiding. I believe in fighting. And that is what people want to see right now from the Democratic Party."

Hogg: "The people most critical of our plan are often the same ones who had billions of dollars to win an election and still lost. So I think the so-called experts can save it, because it's time for some new ideas."

Hogg: "I frame resistance to our approach as proof of our central thesis: People say they want change in the Democratic Party, but really they want change so long as it doesn't potentially endanger their position of power. That's not actually wanting change—that's selfishness."

Dr. Bennett: "That brings up an interesting tension between party loyalty and critical engagement. How do you balance being part of the Democratic Party while also being one of its strongest critics?"

Hogg: "One of my most interesting philosophical positions is embracing party diversity while challenging party leadership. The great thing about our party is we are not a cult. You can be critical of it and still be a Democrat at the same time."

Hogg: "I contrast Democratic pluralism with Republican conformity: Sometimes our messaging is a little more widespread than the Republicans, but we don't have a strongman at the top that excommunicates people."

Hogg: "This creates a productive tension: I value the party's ideological diversity while demanding more unified fighting spirit. Unlike some progressives who advocate for third-party approaches, I'm committed to working within the Democratic Party structure despite its limitations."

Hogg: "I see democratic renewal within the party as a microcosm of democratic renewal in the nation: both require active participation, uncomfortable truths, and strategic pressure points. The Democratic Party has always evolved through internal debate and challenge—that's how we became the party of civil rights, of women's rights, of LGBTQ rights."

Dr. Bennett: "Let's take one more question from the audience before we move to our next topic."

Audience Member 3: "Mr. Hogg, given the urgency of issues like climate change and economic inequality, are you concerned that your long-term party renewal strategy might take too long to address these immediate crises?"

Hogg: "That's an excellent question that gets at the heart of the tension in our work. Despite my youthful image and urgent rhetoric, I frame our work in generational terms. This is a marathon, not a sprint. We have four more years of Trump ahead of us, but hopefully, this movement will be around for eight or ten or twelve years beyond that."

Hogg: "I emphasize institution-building over protest alone. We're putting roots down immediately. I critique previous movements like Occupy for lacking sustained infrastructure—we're building durable organizational structures, developing pipelines for new leadership, creating mechanisms for accountability, and establishing clear pathways to power."

Hogg: "Our approach to change is multi-faceted: electoral challenges through primaries, building youth political participation, creating alternative funding structures, and changing party culture and expectations. While demanding urgency in the present, our vision is fundamentally about long-term transformation."

Hogg: "And importantly, we can walk and chew gum at the same time. We're building for the long term while also fighting immediate battles—opposing Trump's agenda, protecting vulnerable communities, and pushing for whatever progress we can make even under difficult circumstances."

Dr. Bennett: "David, I'd like to shift our focus a bit. Some critics argue that your approach is divisive at a time when unity is needed against Trump. How do you respond to that concern?"

Hogg: "I reject the premise that unity requires conformity or silence. True unity comes from honest dialogue and shared purpose, not from suppressing dissent or avoiding hard conversations."

Hogg: "The question is: unity around what? I believe we need unity around a clear, compelling vision that addresses people's material needs and aspirations. Unity without purpose or direction doesn't get us anywhere."

Hogg: "And let's be honest about the nature of these divisions. They're not personal—they're about fundamental questions of strategy, priorities, and approach. These are debates worth having, and having them openly strengthens our party rather than weakens it."

Hogg: "I'm proud to be a Democrat, and I believe deeply in what this party can be. That's precisely why I'm pushing so hard for it to live up to its highest ideals and potential. This isn't about tearing down—it's about building up something better and stronger."

Dr. Bennett: "Let's take another question from the audience."

Audience Member 4: "Beyond primarying incumbents, what other specific strategies are you pursuing to transform the Democratic Party?"

Hogg: "Leaders We Deserve is just one element of a broader approach to party transformation. We're also focused on several other strategies.

Hogg: "First, we're building a youth political pipeline—identifying, recruiting, and training young people to run for office at all levels, from school boards to state legislatures to Congress. We need to start building the bench of future Democratic leaders now."

Hogg: "Second, we're working on party reform from within—pushing for more democratic processes, greater transparency, and more accountability to the grassroots. The party structure itself needs to evolve to be more responsive to its base."

Hogg: "Third, we're building alternative funding models that reduce dependence on corporate money and large donors. Small-dollar fundraising, volunteer-driven campaigns, and grassroots organizing can be powerful alternatives to traditional campaign structures."

Hogg: "Fourth, we're focused on movement-building beyond elections—organizing around issues, building community power, and creating the conditions for lasting change. Elections are important, but they're just one arena of struggle."

Hogg: "And finally, we're working to change the political narrative—challenging conventional wisdom about what's possible and articulating a vision of politics that speaks to people's deepest hopes and needs. We need to change not just who's in power, but how we think about power itself."

Dr. Bennett: "As we begin to wrap up our conversation, I'm curious about your vision for the future. If your efforts are successful, what would the Democratic Party look like five or ten years from now?"

Hogg: "I envision a Democratic Party that actually delivers for working people—a party that fights for healthcare as a right, affordable housing, quality education, a living wage, and safe communities. A party that stands up to corporate interests and fights for the people who feel left behind."

Hogg: "I want to see a party that reflects the full diversity of America—not just racial and cultural diversity, but age diversity too. We need leaders who understand the challenges facing each generation and who can work together to create solutions."

Hogg: "Most importantly, I want a party that doesn't just defend democracy in the abstract, but shows how democracy can improve people's lives. We need to use democracy to revive the American dream that so many feel is out of reach."

Hogg: "I believe in a Democratic Party that's bold, courageous, and effective—a party that doesn't just win elections but delivers transformative change once in power. A party that earns people's trust by fighting relentlessly for their interests and aspirations."

Hogg: "And I believe in a party that brings new people into the political process—especially young people and those who have been marginalized or excluded. Democracy works best when everyone participates, and the Democratic Party should be the vehicle for that broad, inclusive participation."

Dr. Bennett: "Final question from the audience before we conclude."

Audience Member 5: "Given everything you've shared tonight, what would you say to young people who are disillusioned with both parties and the political system as a whole?"

Hogg: "I understand that disillusionment. I've felt it too. But I would say this: the system doesn't change unless we change it, and walking away only ensures that those causing the problems remain in power."

Hogg: "Join your local Democratic Party. Run for office. Support candidates who share your values. Be part of the change you want to see. The great thing about our system is that, for all its flaws, it still gives us pathways to create change."

Hogg: "And remember that progress is possible. Look at the gun safety movement—after Parkland, we helped pass the first federal gun law in 30 years. We've seen states across the country strengthen gun laws. We're making progress. It's not fast enough, but it's happening."

Hogg: "Most importantly, find community in this work. Change doesn't happen through heroic individuals—it happens through movements, through people coming together around shared values and vision. None of us can do this alone, but together, we have tremendous power."

Hogg: "So don't give up. Democracy needs you now more than ever. The future is unwritten, and we have the power to shape it if we're willing to fight for it."

Dr. Bennett: "David, as we conclude, is there anything else you'd like to share with our audience tonight?"

Hogg: "I'd like to end by saying that this work is deeply personal for me. When my father was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson's disease and faced medical retirement from the FBI, our family didn't face bankruptcy because of the Social Security system Democrats fought to create."

Hogg: "I'm in this position because I know for families like mine what the Democratic Party can do when it fights for working people. I believe in not the Democratic Party we have today but the Democratic Party we could be."

Hogg: "Whether admired or criticized, what I'm trying to do is force the Democratic Party to confront fundamental questions about its purpose, effectiveness, and future: Who does the party truly represent? What constitutes effective leadership in an era of crisis? How can democracy survive if it doesn't deliver tangible benefits? When is internal conflict necessary for organizational health?"

Hogg: "As a Gen Z leader forged in tragedy and activism, I represent both a critique of traditional politics and a vision for its renewal. My political philosophy combines idealism about democratic potential with pragmatism about power—working within the two-party system while challenging its assumptions, respecting institutional knowledge while demanding institutional change, acknowledging history while refusing to be constrained by it."

Hogg: "I stand not just as an activist—but as a force demanding accountability, action, and audacity from a party I believe must transform to survive. I invite all of you to join in this work of democratic renewal, because the future of our party and our democracy depends on it."

Dr. Bennett: "David Hogg, thank you for this candid and thought-provoking conversation. You've given us all a great deal to consider about the future of the Democratic Party and American democracy itself."

Hogg: "Thank you, Dr. Bennett, and thanks to this wonderful audience for their engagement and excellent questions."