Former President Barack Obama issued a strong message to Democratic Party members during a private fundraiser held Friday in New Jersey.
Speaking to a room of donors and officials, Obama called on Democrats to “toughen up,” criticizing what he described as a culture of disappointment and inaction within the party as it gears up for key upcoming elections.
The closed-door event was hosted by Gov. Phil Murphy (D-NJ) and held in support of Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ), who is running for governor in the state’s upcoming race.
The event was not open to the public, but excerpts of Obama’s remarks were later obtained by CNN.
“You know, don’t tell me you’re a Democrat, but you’re kind of disappointed right now, so you’re not doing anything,” Obama told attendees.
“No, now is exactly the time that you get in there and do something.”
Throughout his remarks, the former president directly addressed frustrations among Democratic voters and leaders over the party’s current direction.
He acknowledged concerns about a lack of centralized leadership but dismissed internal complaints as counterproductive.
“I think it’s going to require a little bit less navel-gazing and a little less whining and being in fetal positions,” Obama said.
“And it’s going to require Democrats to just toughen up.”
Obama urged the party to shift its attention away from internal doubts and toward the upcoming gubernatorial elections in New Jersey and Virginia, which he characterized as critical opportunities.
Historically, off-year elections in these states have been viewed as indicators of national political momentum.
“These races are a big jumpstart for where we need to go,” he said.
He emphasized the need for the party to rally behind the candidates who are already in the field.
“Stop looking for the quick fix. Stop looking for the messiah,” Obama said.
“You have great candidates running races right now. Support those candidates.”
In New Jersey, Democrats have nominated Mikie Sherrill, a former Navy helicopter pilot and federal prosecutor who first entered Congress in the 2018 midterm elections.
The Daily Mail reported that that year Democrats flipped the House of Representatives in what many viewed as a reaction to the early years of Donald Trump’s presidency.
On the Republican side, the party has selected former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli as its gubernatorial nominee.
Ciattarelli, who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump, previously ran for governor in 2017 and 2021.
He lost the Republican primary in 2017 and the general election to Governor Murphy in 2021.
Gov. Murphy, who has served two terms, is barred from seeking re-election due to term limits.
In Virginia, the election is set to make history, as both parties have nominated female candidates.
Democrats selected former Rep. Abigail Spanberger, while Republicans nominated Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, is also term-limited and will not be seeking re-election.
Obama pointed to these races as essential testing grounds for Democratic messaging and voter outreach.
He also addressed the infrastructure required to win elections in the current climate, noting the increased importance of data and digital strategy.
“Make sure that the DNC has what it needs to compete in what will be a more data-driven, more social media-driven cycle, which will cost some money and expertise and time,” Obama advised, per CNN’s reporting.
He went on to discuss broader principles he believes the party should uphold, including a defense of free speech, even when it is inconvenient.
“Don’t say that you care deeply about free speech and then you’re quiet,” he said.
“No, you stand up for free speech when it’s hard. When somebody says something that you don’t like, but you still say, ‘You know what, that person has the right to speak.’ … What’s needed now is courage.”
Obama did not mention former President Trump by name in the excerpts obtained by CNN, but the tone and timing of his speech suggest an effort to galvanize Democratic efforts as Trump continues to play a dominant role in Republican politics and electioneering.
The speech marked a shift from Obama’s typically measured, forward-looking public remarks.
Instead, his comments behind closed doors offered direct criticism and a challenge to party members to take more responsibility and initiative.
His statements come as Democrats face challenges in maintaining voter enthusiasm and coherence heading into future elections, particularly with concerns over President Joe Biden’s approval ratings, leadership dynamics and ongoing policy battles.
The post ‘Toughen up’: Obama Drops Savage Message for Dems Opposing Trump, Issues Guidance on Fractured Party’s Next ‘Messiah’ appeared first on Resist the Mainstream.
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Author: Jordyn M.
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