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Democrats convene in Denver to chart course after midterm gains

The two-day What's Next conference, hosted by Majority Democrats, draws officials, strategists and potential 2028 contenders.

Published Nov 12, 2026 · 21:56 UTC2 reports

The short version

  • Democratic officials and strategists are converging on Denver for the two-day What's Next conference, hosted by Majority Democrats, which a new group planned before the midterms.[Al Jazeera · Associated Press]
  • The gathering follows midterm results giving Democrats majorities in both congressional chambers and at least 12 new state legislative chambers.[Associated Press]
  • Scheduled attendees include newly elected senators James Talarico and Josh Turek, and potential 2028 contenders Pete Buttigieg, Cory Booker and Josh Shapiro.[Al Jazeera · Associated Press]
  • Some progressives reportedly question the organizers' vision, including their backing of a public option rather than Medicare for All.[Al Jazeera · Associated Press]

Key facts

  • Democratic officials and strategists are convening in Denver starting Thursday for the two-day What's Next conference hosted by Majority Democrats.[Associated Press]
  • The conference was planned by Majority Democrats, a new group chaired by Massachusetts Representative Jake Auchincloss.[Al Jazeera]
  • Democrats hold majorities in both congressional chambers and control at least 12 new state legislative chambers after the midterm elections.[Associated Press]
  • Scheduled attendees include Texas Sen.-elect James Talarico and Iowa Sen.-elect Josh Turek.[Al Jazeera · Associated Press]
  • Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker are attending and are seen as potential presidential contenders.[Al Jazeera · Associated Press]
  • Denver Mayor Mike Johnston will kick off the gathering on Thursday, as Denver remains in the running to host the 2028 Democratic convention.[Associated Press]

What remains uncertain

  • Progressive criticism of the organizers' vision is attributed to some progressives, and the reporting does not establish how widespread it is.[Al Jazeera · Associated Press]
  • The reporting does not establish what policy decisions or outcomes the conference will produce.[Al Jazeera · Associated Press]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.