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last mo.

Obama Tells Democrats to Toughen Up at Fundraiser Raising $2.5M for State Contests

He positioned upcoming New Jersey and Virginia governor’s races as catalysts for rebuilding the party’s campaign infrastructure.

Former President Barack Obama during the second day of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center.
CLARKSTON, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 24: Former U.S. President Barack Obama speaks during a campaign event for Democratic presidential nominee, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, at the James R Hallford Stadium on October 24, 2024 in Clarkston, Georgia. Harris and Republican presidential nominee, former U.S. President Donald Trump, continue campaigning in battleground swing states before the November 5th election. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)
Former President Barack Obama attends the inauguration of Donald Trump in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on Jan. 20 in Washington.

Overview

  • At his first post-2024 fundraiser in Red Bank, New Jersey, Obama urged Democrats to end self-pity, drop “navel-gazing” and “toughen up” after sweeping losses.
  • The private dinner hosted by Gov. Phil Murphy and his wife Tammy generated $2.5 million through in-person and online donations for the DNC.
  • He called on donors to rally behind Democratic nominees in New Jersey and Virginia, portraying those off-year elections as vital momentum builders.
  • Obama stressed the need for substantial investment in data-driven, social media-focused campaign infrastructure, including funding, expertise and time.
  • He challenged party members to defend free speech and core values with courage, insisting they must stand up even when it’s difficult.