Can Democrats unite around one strong message and strengthen the party? Former Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley is trying to help Democrats win districts across the country in midterm elections with his Win Back Your State PAC. On "Salon Talks," the 2016 presidential candidate gave his read on the new wave of progressive candidates sweeping the country.

"They were motivated to run because of Donald Trump in a sort of noble reactivism," O'Malley told Salon's Matthew Rozsa. "They learned that people don't want to hear about Donald Trump on their doors. They're sick of him." According to O'Malley, who's traveled to over 20 states in support of candidates, this year's Democratic contenders are emphasizing the timeless American message of "opportunity for all" and addressing people's real anxieties, like health care, college affordability and jobs. While O'Malley encourages calling out President Trump's lies and missteps on immigration and Russia, he reveals why he is ultimately still hopeful about America's future.