The election has been too close to predict throughout the 2024 cycle, but Donald Trump has been gaining momentum ever since he survived an assassination attempt and thrust his fist into the air with the American flag as a backdrop as blood streamed down his defiant face.

The newly iconic photo of that moment galvanized Trump supporters; and if he wins, that will be the image historians point to as the moment everything changed.

So, what should Democrats do if he wins?

Democratic leaders should acknowledge that it was a bad idea to fight ire with ire.

Tim Waltz calling conservatives “weird” was risky. It was understandable, but risky. Joe Biden calling Trump supporters “garbage” was an unforced error.

Waltz, when he delivered one of the lines that will define this campaign, was a prospective running mate for Kamala Harris. Potential VPs can deliver fiery soundbites. (Anybody remember Sarah Palin?) Presidents, however, can’t speak that way.

Opinions:What conservatives should do if Harris wins

Biden has had a long history of putting his foot in his mouth, even before the disaster of a debate that led to the Harris candidacy. But this “garbage” comment will go down as the worst of them all.

Conservatives were proud of the insult and used it to rally the common man.

Democrats need to apologize to Michelle........

© Arizona Republic