Is Obama trying to get back into politics?
Former President Barack Obama is returning to the spotlight this Friday night in New Jersey, headlining a major Democrat fundraiser as the party faces growing internal turmoil and financial collapse following President Donald Trump’s dominant 2024 victory.
The high-priced event—hosted by the Democratic National Committee—marks Obama’s first major political appearance since Trump defeated Kamala Harris and reclaimed the White House with a clear national majority. The DNC is now scrambling for money and unity as the 2026 elections loom.
According to Axios, the fundraiser is a response to urgent warnings from Democrat insiders. A recent New York Times exposé declared the DNC is “in chaos and desperate for cash,” as wealthy donors grow frustrated and divided leadership fails to present a clear strategy.
Joining Obama on stage will be DNC Chairman Ken Martin, outgoing New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, and Rep. Mikie Sherrill—who is eyeing the New Jersey governor’s seat. The event is branded as a “dinner and discussion,” but its true purpose is clear: Democrats are turning to Obama to patch the holes in a sinking ship.
The fundraiser has already sold out, with all proceeds funneled directly to the struggling Democratic National Committee. Party leaders hope the cash infusion can help salvage credibility ahead of the 2026 midterms—but critics argue the reliance on Obama proves how little confidence there is in today’s Democrat leadership.
Obama’s fundraising resume is well known: he reportedly brought in $85 million for Democrats in 2024 and raised a staggering $750 million during his own 2008 presidential run. But many conservative voters see this as more proof that Democrats are stuck in the past—while President Trump and the Republican Party are surging forward with bold leadership and growing grassroots momentum.
As the DNC clings to old names and familiar faces, Americans are watching closely. The question now is whether Democrat donors will keep writing checks—or whether they’re finally done funding failure.