‘Do More’: Democrats Are Getting Grilled on Their Votes With Republicans

As the minority party campaigns to build opposition to President Trump, members are also facing constituents angry about the Democratic Party’s strategy.

Bill Foster

Mark Schiefelbein/AP

An hour into Rep. Nikki Budzinski’s most recent town hall, a constituent demanded that the Illinois Democrat explain why she “hurt” her district by supporting legislation that advanced Republicans’ agenda, like the Laken Riley Act. The attendee added, “You don’t get anything for any votes you give to the Republicans.”

Budzinski defended her vote for the immigration legislation, which was an early test for Democrats on how they would adjust based on last year’s election results.

“Where I can, I am truly showing up, and I understand how that vote was disappointing,” Budzinski, whose district leans Democrat, said on Wednesday.