Two prominent Democratic lawmakers have publicly criticized their party's leadership and direction as the 2022 midterm elections approach.

Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey stated Sunday that the Democratic Party "desperately needs new leadership" with less than six months remaining before the midterm elections. Booker emphasized the need to "focus on the people" and expressed optimism about emerging new leaders and vision within the party.

Separately, Representative Ro Khanna has criticized Democrats for supporting what he characterized as "status quo" candidates. Khanna argued that the party has failed working-class voters by backing candidates who have not adequately addressed economic inequality.

The comments from both lawmakers suggest internal dissatisfaction within the Democratic Party regarding its current direction and candidate selection process. Khanna specifically stated that working-class voters have been "shafted" by the party's approach.

These critiques come as Democrats face challenging electoral prospects in the November midterm elections, with historical patterns typically favoring the opposition party during a president's first midterm cycle. The party currently controls both chambers of Congress and the White House.