Ashley Etienne, a former advisor to Nancy Pelosi, criticized House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries for not capitalizing on anti-Trump sentiments, alleging that Democrats are missing a significant opportunity. Etienne, who has worked on Democratic messaging during Trump's first impeachment, noted Jeffries' leadership gaps, particularly in failing to provide clear talking points and allowing internal Democratic conflicts to overshadow Trump's declining approval ratings. Jeffries' allies countered that his efforts were being overshadowed by intraparty friction, which detracted from focusing on Trump's policies. Despite Etienne's critique, some progressive groups, such as the Progressive Change Campaign Committee, defended Jeffries, stating they hear more from him than they did from Pelosi. The criticism of Jeffries comes amid ongoing Democratic internal strife and questions about the party's direction and messaging effectiveness during the Trump era.

Ashley Etienne, once a senior advisor to Nancy Pelosi, has expressed disappointment in Hakeem Jeffries' leadership, suggesting he is failing to seize the opportunity to effectively oppose Donald Trump. She emphasized the lack of strategic messaging and clear communication, which she believes are essential in leveraging the political climate against Trump.

Etienne criticized Jeffries for not providing adequate talking points following his speeches, which she sees as a failure in maintaining message discipline. This has been compounded by internal Democratic disputes that have distracted from focusing on Trump's low approval ratings and Republican policies.

Despite Etienne's criticisms, Jeffries' spokesperson, Christiana Stephenson, highlighted that Trump's declining approval ratings and Republican policy missteps should remain the central focus. Jeffries has recently criticized Republicans for delaying legislative work due to backlash against their proposals for substantial Medicaid and food assistance cuts.

The Progressive Change Campaign Committee (PCCC) defended Jeffries, arguing they have more communication from him now than they did during Pelosi's tenure. This response came in light of Etienne's comments, which some viewed as an unwelcome distraction that could benefit Republicans.

Etienne also mentioned that while Democrats have had successes in messaging, such as criticizing Elon Musk, they have also faced setbacks, notably the embarrassing protests during Trump's congressional speech, which detracted from the intended focus on Trump's message.

The internal Democratic conflict and criticisms of Jeffries' leadership style, described by some as passive and directionless, highlight ongoing challenges within the party. Democratic strategist Julian Epstein remarked that leadership issues remain secondary to the party's broader challenge of appealing to voters with policies they support.

Jeffries' leadership is under scrutiny not only from within his party but also from Republicans, who have seized on these internal disagreements to portray him as an ineffective leader. The NRCC's statement suggests that Jeffries lacks the respect and influence necessary to lead effectively, further complicating the Democratic Party's efforts to present a united front.