Top Democrat says party must face reality, stop complaining

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A prominent Democratic donor and activist has criticized her party’s response to their 2024 election loss, calling for introspection rather than panic.

Nicole Avant, in a candid interview with The Hollywood Reporter, emphasized the need for Democrats to face reality and reassess their approach.

Top donor Nicole Avant scolds Democrats ‘whining’ after election defeat: ‘Need a reality check’ https://t.co/hXSS60p3G3 pic.twitter.com/GNGvkKplqb

— New York Post (@nypost) December 7, 2024

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“People need a reality check. The Democratic Party needs a reality check,” Avant stated.

“I don’t really follow Bernie Sanders, but I love what he said: ‘Are we really shocked that the Democratic Party is going to leave the working class and then the working class decides to vote for somebody else? Why are we in shock?’ Now and again, everything swings. People have to regroup,” she continued in comments to The Hollywood Reporter.

“I hope people really look at themselves right now,” she added.

Avant, who comes from a notable family background – daughter of Jacqueline Avant and music executive Clarence Avant – has significant influence within Democratic circles. Her marriage to Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos and close ties to the Obamas have positioned her as a key fundraiser, having helped generate over $500,000 for Obama’s 2012 campaign.

Her political involvement extends beyond the Obama administration, with fundraising efforts supporting various Democratic leaders including Vice President Kamala Harris, President Joe Biden, and California Governor Gavin Newsom.

Addressing the post-election atmosphere, Avant dismissed the notion of leaving the country due to Republican victory. “Everybody is going, ‘Oh my God. Where am I going to move?’ I’m not going anywhere. I’m an American. I love my country,” she declared, pointing out that “millions of Democrats didn’t vote.”

Nicole Avant, Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry and Kerry Washington pose on the carpet at the #SixTripleEight premiere. pic.twitter.com/GqmkJXqIfx

— Variety (@Variety) December 4, 2024

She expressed optimism about the party’s future, highlighting promising leadership: “I’m still very optimistic, and I think that we have great people in the party — Gov. Josh Shapiro, Gov. Andy Beshear, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, they’re all smart and effective. People need to decide how they want to be effective and productive and be orderly about it.”

Her parting advice was straightforward: “Don’t be whining all the time.”

Avant’s political experience includes serving as Obama’s ambassador to the Bahamas from 2009 to 2011.