For once, Dems need to show STRENGTH

[Hortensis]

3. We show plenty strength of principle for those who can recognize it.

It's hardly an accident that the Democratic Party is on the side of law and liberal principles our nation was founded and has grown with, occupying those as the fortress from which we are protecting our democracy from the barbarians who'd destroy it.

As for your premise, maybe look back to the midterms. They, and all the polling leading up to them, revealed that a majority of Americans really do NOT want bullying and ruthlessness.