Tuesday's CAP IDEAS Conference brought together some of the country’s leading voices to share bold solutions to the challenges facing Americans, from the high cost of living to threats to our democracy. Across every conversation, one theme was clear: The broad center-left has big ideas for the future, and they’re ready to fight for them.
Throughout the day, elected leaders, policy experts, journalists, and advocates gathered to discuss what it will take to build an economy that works for everyone, strengthen our fragile democratic institutions, and meet this critical political moment with urgency and ambition.
If you weren't able to catch the whole day, MS NOW will be airing "We the People: America's Future," a two-hour special featuring highlights from the CAP IDEAS Conference, this Friday at 9pm ET.
Ahead of the MS NOW special, here are a few standout moments from the day:
In conversation with CAP President and CEO Neera Tanden, Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA) argued that Democrats must meet today’s political moment with greater urgency and clarity. Gov. Newsom called for bold leadership on everything from artificial intelligence to economic inequality.
Gov. Wes Moore (D-MD) argued that real public safety means investing in people before crises happen, not just responding after the fact. Gov. Moore discussed how expanding economic opportunity, education, and community support systems—along with investments in high-quality policing—can reduce violence and create safer, stronger communities for everyone.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) made the case that affordable child care is not only a family issue but a core economic priority. Sen. Warren outlined how investing in universal child care would lower costs for families, strengthen the workforce, and help create an economy where working parents are set up to succeed, not squeezed at every turn.
Sen. Cory Booker spoke about the connection between public health, corporate accountability, and economic justice, arguing that Americans are being failed by systems that prioritize profits over well-being. Sen. Booker called for policies that make nutritious food, preventive care, and healthier lifestyles more accessible and affordable for working families.
In conversation with MS NOW’s Symone Sanders Townsend, Sen. Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) underscored the urgency of protecting voting rights and strengthening democratic participation at a moment when access to the ballot box remains under attack in many states. He also urged for structural reform, including the end to the Senate filibuster: “No arcane Senate procedure should block people’s rights to have their voices heard. That is my position.”
Thank you to everyone who joined us in person and online for CAP IDEAS 2026. Now, when someone asks, “Where are all our leaders?” and “Where are all the ideas?”, you know the answer: The Center for American Progress brings together both for a bold path forward.
Missed any part of the conference? Watch the full event here:
