Dan Turrentine, a former advisor to the Democratic Party who has now become a frequent voice on Mark Halperin’s ‘2Way’ program, recently delivered a scathing critique of Democratic leadership.
In a candid discussion, Turrentine awarded the party a resounding ‘F’ for their current strategies, asserting that they lack any coherent plan. His sharpest barbs were aimed at Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, whom he accused of being overly active on Twitter/X yet failing to convey authenticity, often coming across as awkward and contrived.
Moreover, Turrentine hinted that if Democrats do not reclaim the House in the upcoming midterms, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries could be in jeopardy of losing his position.
Sean Spicer also participated in this segment, contributing some noteworthy observations.
Excerpt from the transcript via Real Clear Politics:
MARK HALPERIN: Punchbowl News, a publication known for its insider perspective, frequently evaluates the leaders of both parties. Let’s borrow that concept for today’s discussion. Dan, what grade would you assign to Schumer and Jeffries for their performance in 2025 regarding their party’s interests?
DAN TURRENTINE: F. They have no strategy. Both of them deserve an F.
HALPERIN: An F for both?
TURRENTINE: They began without a clear direction and have remained fearful of their base. They lack an understanding of modern tactics for organization and breakthrough. We’re approaching a budget negotiation this fall—following the chaos of March—and they still have no plan.
HALPERIN: Sean, would you give them an F or perhaps an F-minus?
TURRENTINE: F-plus.
SEAN SPICER: Back in high school, we had a term for that—“circle D,” meaning you’re failing, but we’ll give you a pass for effort. I wouldn’t even grant them a circle D.
TURRENTINE: Exactly, they’re not even making an effort.
SPICER: Dan’s spot on. It’s a classic case of flailing—just tossing ideas out randomly. Take a look at Schumer’s Twitter from yesterday. He tweeted about Jim Crow, Epstein, inflation, tariffs…
TURRENTINE: Even his tweets read like they belong in the congressional gallery.
SPICER: Because they do!
TURRENTINE: There’s a complete absence of authenticity or humor—nothing that resonates. It’s just dry and unengaging.
Watch the video below:
While Dan Turrentine identifies as a liberal, he offers a refreshing perspective as an honest analyst.
