They are getting desperate.
A recent report commissioned by Arena, a Democratic organization focused on pipeline-building, emphasizes the urgent need for increased investment in recruiting and training efforts. The report highlights the importance of countering Republican groups that excel in staff training and diversity initiatives as the 2024 election approaches.
According to Lauren Baer, the managing partner of Arena, winning elections requires not only great candidates but also well-trained teams that reflect the diversity of the Democratic voting base and the areas they represent. The report, conducted by Dalberg Advisors for Arena, reveals that the Democratic talent pipeline lacks the necessary robustness and diversity to consistently win campaigns and govern effectively.
Surprisingly, the report challenges the assumption that Democrats have a natural advantage in focusing on diversity, especially regarding racial diversity. It notes that Republicans are actively working to address this gap, and their pipeline efforts are making significant strides.
The study also underscores the funding disparity between Democratic and Republican pipeline-building organizations. Republicans are investing more than four times as much in supporting these crucial initiatives, creating a substantial gap that Democrats need to close.
Matt Frazier from Dalberg Advisors suggests that a minimal shift in donor investment could bring Democrats on par with Republicans in this domain. The report recommends strengthening recruitment in diverse communities, offering comprehensive training in campaign strategy, digital strategy, and fundraising, and fostering safe and inclusive workplaces for staff and candidates.
Moreover, the report emphasizes the importance of addressing the culture within campaigns, ensuring they align with the values of the Democratic party. Issues such as compensation, work hours, and toxic cultures within campaigns should be addressed to create an environment that supports diversity and success.
Retention emerges as a critical aspect, with the report urging organizations to provide work for trained staffers between campaign cycles. Girish Pendse, an associate partner at Dalberg Advisors, emphasizes the return on investment perspective, highlighting the value of retaining well-trained individuals to move into leadership roles and preventing their loss to other industries.
In conclusion, the report calls for a strategic and comprehensive approach to bridge the talent pipeline gap, urging Democrats to invest wisely in recruiting, training, and retaining diverse and skilled individuals for long-term success in elections and governance.
