The Abundance Movement: Navigating Politics and Perceptions
At the recent gathering of the Abundance movement—its largest to date and still resonating with a best-selling manifesto—champions openly confronted the movement’s contentious status within US politics. The collective, a mix of yes-in-my-backyard liberals and deregulation-focused libertarians, showcased a significant potential for success, particularly in slower-growing blue states and small, thriving cities in Utah and Montana.
Challenging the Term ‘Abundance’
Despite the promising coalition, conversations surrounding “abundance” were met with resistance. Protesters voiced their concerns, leaving many ordinary voters feeling perplexed. As New York Democratic Rep. Ritchie Torres noted, “I never use the word ‘abundance’ in the South Bronx,” a sentiment echoed by Republican Utah Rep. Celeste Maloy, who opted for terminology that resonated better with her constituents.
Reframing Political Discourse
Instead of sticking with “abundance,” which has garnered mixed reactions, Torres advanced a “build-housing” agenda while Maloy focused on a “liberty” agenda. This reframing aims to foster understanding and connection with voters, addressing their needs while sidestepping the contentious label.
A Diverse Gathering of ThinkersA Diverse Gathering of Thinkers
Over the course of two days at a Washington D.C. hotel, hundreds of think-tankers, philanthropists, and local officials engaged in meaningful discussions about pro-growth ideas that transcended traditional party lines. This conference served as a platform for innovative thinking about how to present growth-focused initiatives that align with public sentiments. Creative gifts, like plush nuclear reactors and stickers representing six fictional “abundance” brands created by the libertarian Niskanen Center, highlighted the playful yet serious nature of the dialogue.
The Political Landscape
Attendees predominantly leaned liberal, particularly those focusing on political strategies aimed at revitalizing the Democratic Party. However, their opposition spanned a broad spectrum. Environmentalists on the left insisted on maintaining stringent regulations to combat climate change, while MAGA nationalists on the right focused on dismantling renewable energy initiatives and pushing for immigration restrictions.
Recognizing the Challenge Ahead
California state Sen. Scott Weiner articulated a pressing concern, stating, “We now have a federal administration that appears to be very much pro-scarcity.” He emphasized the necessity of revising California’s Environmental Quality Act to facilitate new housing developments, reflecting the urgency for change within the movement.
Understanding Voter Sentiments
Those involved in the Abundance movement acknowledged the importance of recognizing voter perspectives. They stressed the need for a balance between growth and addressing public apprehensions, particularly regarding immigration. Historical evidence suggests that advocating for more housing can be a winning formula, but the movement must carefully navigate public sentiment to achieve its goals, as exemplified by Zohran Mamdani’s rising popularity in New York.
Insights from Diverse Perspectives
Reihan Salam, president of the conservative Manhattan Institute, articulated the complexities of political alignment, praising Mamdani’s slogan, “Afford to live, afford to dream.” While they may differ on many issues, Salam recognized that resonating with young and immigrant voters is crucial for any movement aiming for broader acceptance.
A Call for Hopeful Egalitarianism
Salam concluded with a critique of the prevailing attitudes on both sides of the political spectrum, describing a “punitive egalitarianism” that stems from fear rather than hope. He argued that true progress requires a constructive approach that elevates all individuals, rather than one predicated on punishment or division.
