A few dos and don’ts:

Don’t, as a matter of political expediency try to move past the blatant corruption and rampant illegality that has consumed the Executive Branch since Donald Trump’s second swearing in. If you do not confront in direct terms the crimes of the Trump entourage they will become legacy and destiny.

Don’t, as a matter of political expediency coddle the Trump voters and give them a shoulder to cry on. The Trump voters voted not only for Trump but for generational damage to American prosperity at home and humiliation on the world stage. Those who voted for this nightmare must come to grips with the ramifications of what they have done.

Don’t, continue to say, “We’re for working families.” The democrats have made that the go-to mantra in nearly every political campaign since the extinction of the American middle class began. Hearing it again and again just reminds everyone of the failures that got us here, regardless of who you blame.

Don’t, rely on political marketing tactics as a way to conduct retail politics. This creates a forbidding barrier between the party, its candidates and those who would be your supporters.

Don’t, get hung up on left/right/center definitions. It’s always a game you will always loose. It polarizes your constituency, obscures the actual issues and creates great opportunities for the opposition to exploit the tension in your ranks.

Do, be prepared to “take power” on day one. When a Republican is elected President they move swiftly to take full-control of all governmental functions, at home and abroad. When a Democrat is elected President they seek cooperation with the Republicans. Regardless of which path you choose you will be accused of being a dictator. Get over it and be prepared assume power with authority on Inauguration Day.

Do, be prepared to address the threat to democracy posed by the Supreme Court. This is a court intentionally constructed as a — super political body — that is determined to circumvent the legislative process and force right wing political change. No democratic majority in Congress, no Democratic President can accomplish anything legislatively with this group of Justices in power. If you are to lead a revitalization of democracy in America, you must have a plan to confront the ongoing abuses at the Supreme Court.

Do, be prepared to address the ongoing wars that are impacting the world. The time to focus on domestic issues and let the world deal with it’s own problems has passed. These conflicts are directly and negatively impacting the security and economic fortunes of America. Remember you are running to be Commander-in-Chief. The voters have a right to know what your plan is. *Note; this issue may well grow in importance significantly before the next US presidential election cycle.

Do, be prepared for a systemic whole of government approach to repairing the wide range of damages the Trump entourage has wrought upon US governmental institutions. From the military to the forest service, from agriculture to foreign aid Trump’s minions have indeed taken a chainsaw every governmental institution they hated. You must have a coordinated plan to effect what amounts to a second American reconstruction.

Do, remember that you are presenting yourself as a leader. It’s great to “feel their pain” and listen to what matters to them, but at the end of the day if you want them to vote for you to be their elected leader, you have to demonstrate your leadership skills. Tell the voters what you will do. Democratic candidates have long avoided making campaign promises for fear of being accused of not delivering. But telling the voters what you will do defines your vision and becomes the platform and mandate for the change your movement is about.