Democratic Candidates Use Weightlifting Videos to Engage Male Voters Ahead Midterms

Ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, Democratic candidates are increasingly sharing videos of themselves engaging in workouts such as weightlifting, running, and other physical activities to counter perceptions of aging leadership and to connect with younger male voters, a demographic that has largely shifted toward the Republican Party. Candidates like Texas Senate hopeful Colin Allred and Michigan's Abdul El-Sayed use these videos not only to display physical vigor but also to deliver political messages, aiming to reach audiences in online spaces known as the 'manosphere,' where conservative voices have traditionally dominated. This strategy emerges amidst ongoing controversies about President Joe Biden's physical and mental fitness, with Democrats attempting to project strength, energy, and authenticity. While some strategists praise the approach as a creative way to engage voters, others warn about the risk of appearing insincere or pandering. El-Sayed emphasizes that this campaign tactic is not exclusive to men but is part of a broader effort to break down barriers between politicians and voters by integrating fitness with politics. Overall, the fitness-focused campaign content reflects Democrats' efforts to revitalize their image and appeal to a demographic that has been challenging for the party to win over in recent years.