Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Democrats Prefer Firmness; Outsider Leads Maine, Murphy Calls Action

5/14/2026

32 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

NBC News poll in March 2025 showed 65% of Democrats prefer firm positions even if it leads to gridlock, reversing 2017 attitudes.
Populist outsider Graham Platton surged ahead in Maine’s Senate primary, overtaking two-term Governor Janet Mills, who had backing from Democratic leaders.
Senator Chris Murphy warned Democrats must combine aggressive tactics with policies such as higher minimum wages and industrial strategy to win over Trump voters.

1 of 1

Story summary

NBC News poll in March 2025 showed 65% of Democrats prefer firm positions even if it leads to gridlock, reversing 2017 attitudes.
Populist outsider Graham Platton surged ahead in Maine’s Senate primary, overtaking two-term Governor Janet Mills, who had backing from Democratic leaders.
Senator Chris Murphy warned Democrats must combine aggressive tactics with policies such as higher minimum wages and industrial strategy to win over Trump voters.