Democrats gather in Denver for post-midterms introspection-turned-celebration

Democratic officials and strategists are meeting in Denver to discuss the party’s direction after a strong midterm result and celebrate its gains. The gathering comes as Democrats prepare to hold majorities in both chambers of Congress and make use of expanded influence in state legislatures.

The two-day What’s Next conference is hosted by Majority Democrats, a group seeking to bridge the party’s ideological and generational divides. Speakers include Senate-elects James Talarico of Texas and Josh Turek of Iowa, as well as Pete Buttigieg, Cory Booker, Josh Shapiro and likely incoming House Speaker Hakeem Jeffries. Denver is also promoting itself as a possible host city for the 2028 Democratic convention.