The center-left think tank Third Way has circulated a memo advising the Democratic Party to avoid using 45 specific words and phrases that it argues alienate everyday voters across racial, religious, and ethnic lines. The terms, spanning six categories including "therapy speak" and "explaining away crime," include words such as "privilege," "violence" (as in "environmental violence"), "dialoguing," "othering," "triggering," and "microaggression." The memo suggests that such language creates barriers between Democrats and the broader electorate. This guidance comes amid concerns within the party about messaging effectiveness, with some noting that language used by the Biden administration overlaps with the flagged terms. At the Democratic National Convention, discussions have emphasized shifting from "tough on crime" rhetoric to "serious about safety" messaging, reflecting input from organizations like the Vera Institute of Justice, which advocates for defunding the police. The memo also addresses terms related to the transgender community, urging Democrats to reconsider language that might hinder broader appeal. The effort reflects an ongoing internal debate within the Democratic Party about how to better connect with mainstream voters as it faces electoral challenges.