Dēmos, a progressive policy organization, released its 2026 Policy Agenda titled "Power Policies: How to Get and Keep People Power in the United States." The agenda centers on nine reforms designed to address what Dēmos frames as the interconnected crises of economic inequality and democratic erosion.
The organization positions the agenda as a governing roadmap for advocates and policymakers seeking to improve economic conditions for working Americans while strengthening democratic institutions. The nine reforms target both material conditions and political power structures, reflecting Dēmos's belief that economic and political systems remain inseparable.
Dēmos, known for its work on voting rights, economic justice, and democracy advocacy, aims to influence the policy conversations heading into 2026 and beyond. The organization has historically focused on issues including voter suppression, gerrymandering, corporate influence in politics, and wealth inequality.
The specific reforms remain detailed in the full agenda document, but the framing suggests Dēmos seeks to challenge what it views as structural barriers preventing working people from exercising political influence. This approach aligns with broader progressive efforts to link economic policy with democratic reform.
The release timing reflects ongoing debates within progressive circles about how to combine traditional economic policy goals like wage increases and worker protections with democracy-focused reforms such as voting access and campaign finance limits. Dēmos argues these challenges cannot be solved independently.
The agenda serves as a policy blueprint for advocacy organizations, congressional staffers, and progressive candidates looking for substantive reform proposals. It represents one of several competing policy frameworks Democratic and progressive leaders are considering for upcoming election cycles and legislative pushes.