Great piece, Andrew Gaertner.

One of the reasons the Democrats are struggling today was their own doing. By focusing their resources where they had the best chances of winning, they withdrew from rural and small-town America. Poorly supported, these communities fell into a relationship with Republicans who delivered little but at least were company. People harden when abandoned, and once this happens, an awful amount of time, effort, and resources are required to reverse it.

There are many Democrats who believe that folk in the middle of America can't be reached. This is nonsense which you and your article point out beautifully.

Many thanks. Best for you and your candidates.