"For, as a New Englander, I recognize that the South is still the land of Washington, who made our Nation - of Jefferson, who shaped its direction - and of Robert E. Lee who, after gallant failure, urged those who had followed him in bravery to reunite America in purpose and courage." ~ John F. Kennedy, September 17th, 1960.
(https://scontent-dft4-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/22406485_2032632633417378_1819734306995545941_n.jpg?oh=009d5ad5458b65392b5d877d87530c4a&oe=5A6D8451)
Kennedy was not a Jeffersonian Democrat but it looks like he had some indication of the existence of real Democrats.