This archive report was first published on 29 July 2019.
Published on July 29, 2019, House Democrats were heading into a long recess with a mixed record on key issues.
Indivisible activists, a grass-roots network of progressive activists, expressed frustration over the impeachment process, citing a lack of clear message from Democrats. 'It looks weak, because it is weak,' said Ezra Levin, a co-founder of Indivisible.
Despite the challenges, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has maintained an impressive productivity, churning out bill after marquee bill that Democrats can point to in their quest to offer a different approach from Republicans.
Steve Elmendorf, a lobbyist and former top House Democratic leadership aide, noted that voters may give Democrats credit for trying to pass significant legislation, even if it's ultimately blocked by the Senate. 'But the good thing for the freshmen and the people in Trump districts is they have something to say, they have a message, they have things they are trying to do,' he said.
Ms. Pelosi's ability to maintain unity among Democrats has been a key factor in their success, with many lawmakers praising her leadership. 'She, every week, puts up 218 votes on a lot of things, and that's what matters,' said Mr. Elmendorf.
