CNN data analyst Harry Enten warned Democrats are facing mounting challenges ahead of the November midterm elections, arguing the party is confronting a series of warning signs that could jeopardize its hopes of regaining congressional power.
Democrats’ ‘red flags’
“If Democrats lose to [Donald] Trump yet again, these are all the red flags,” Enten began. “Democrats, you have only about a hundred days until the midterm elections, and you don’t have control of either chamber anywhere close to being locked up.”
Enten said one of the party’s biggest problems is its fundraising disadvantage compared with Republicans’. “You know, Democrats, they’re much more like this, they’re your $1 bills. While Republicans, you’re much more like this: You’re 50s and, dare I say, even you’re $100 bills.”
He then highlighted the financial gap between the parties, saying Republican outside groups and congressional committees currently hold $657 million compared to a little more than half of that for Democrats.
“Take a look here. Republicans at this point, $657 million! My goodness gracious, that’s why I’m talking about these bills, right?” Enten said. “While the Democrats, only about $334 million — only about half the level of Republicans. And, of course, cash is what makes the world go round in politics.”
The Democratic National Committee’s finances
Enten also pointed to the Democratic National Committee’s finances, contrasting them with the Republican National Committee’s.
“Now, you think that these numbers are bad,” Enten continued. “How about the national committees themselves? The RNC, the DNC — Republican National Committee, Democratic National Committee. Look at this. Cash they have June 2026. The RNC: $129 million. That’s pretty gosh darn good, right?”
He contrasted that with the DNC’s financial position.
“They’re actually in negative territory!” Enten exclaimed. “The party debt actually is greater than the cash on hand! The Democratic National Committee, it’s broke! It’s basically broke! And why is this? What is going on here?”
Democratic favorability ratings
Beyond fundraising, Enten argued the party faces a broader image problem, citing Democratic favorability ratings.
“Back in 2018 when Democrats were able to take control of the House, they were actually on the plus side of the ledger. They were actually in positive territory at plus-one point,” Enten said. “Look now in 2026. We’re not just talking down – they’re underneath the Potomac. We’re talking down there with the Titanic! We’re talking 24 points underwater!”
Enten called the figures “absolutely terrible,” arguing Democrats have developed a “terrible, terrible brand” because many voters believe they are “too liberal.”
“They think that the Democratic Party is out of the mainstream, out of the frame. I dare say, my God, this is a massive, massive problem!” Enten said. “And you know what is fueling that? You know, it’s only adding fuel to the fire? How about the Democratic Socialists of America?”
