Democrats debate party’s direction at Denver conference

Democratic leaders, strategists and newly elected officials gathered in Denver for the “What’s Next” conference, a two-day meeting on the party’s direction after its midterm gains and ahead of its return to control of Congress in January. The gathering brought together potential 2028 presidential contenders, but did not produce a unified party agenda or establish a frontrunner.

Hosted by Majority Democrats, a group chaired by Massachusetts Rep. Jake Auchincloss, the conference was planned before the midterms. Its discussions reflected competing views about how Democrats should use their congressional majorities and respond to President Donald Trump during the final two years of his presidency.

Some newly elected Democrats urged their party to seek opportunities to work with Trump. Iowa Gov.-elect Rob Sand said voters need public servants focused on improving their lives, and cautioned against making investigations and impeachments the focus of the party’s new political momentum. Asked whether that meant working with the administration, Sand said Democrats did not get to choose who they work with.

Texas Sen.-elect James Talarico also called for cooperation, while saying Democrats...