Following the Democratic Party's losses in the 2024 election, experts suggest that former President Barack Obama's long-standing influence within the party may be diminishing. The election cycle saw the Democrats unite behind both President Biden and subsequently Vice President Kamala Harris, with Obama's endorsement. However, President-elect Trump's decisive victory has prompted calls for reflection and accountability within the Democratic establishment.
Strategist Julian Epstein criticized Democratic leadership, including Obama, for supporting Biden's second term bid despite concerns about his fitness for office and for installing Harris, an "untested" Vice President. He also criticized their failure to challenge the progressive left's policies, which he believes are out of sync with most voters.
Obama's recent speech at the 2024 Obama Democracy Forum drew criticism, with some commentators suggesting he still doesn't understand the factors that contributed to Trump's initial victory. The Democratic Party and Harris' campaign have also faced criticism for focusing on celebrity endorsements and neglecting working-class voters, who gravitated towards Trump.
Harris' campaign staff, many of whom were former Obama aides, defended their strategies on the "Pod Save America" podcast, but avoided acknowledging any significant errors. The New York Post editorial board declared the election a repudiation of the "Obama doctrine," arguing that voters rejected the demonization of Trump and embraced his policies.
The election cycle witnessed a series of events leading to Biden's withdrawal and Harris' nomination. Concerns about Biden's mental fitness intensified after a report by Special Counsel Robert Hur. A series of public gaffes and miscues further fueled these concerns. Despite initially supporting Biden, Obama ultimately remained silent as prominent Democrats, including several of his own former allies, called for Biden to step aside.
Following Biden's withdrawal, Harris, who had a long-standing relationship with Obama and had been dubbed the "female Obama," secured his endorsement. She assembled a campaign team that included numerous Obama alumni. Despite this support, Harris' campaign ultimately failed to resonate with voters.
Epstein further criticized Obama and the Democratic establishment for yielding to the progressive wing of the party and for not maintaining his earlier criticisms of "woke" culture. He cited Obama's remarks criticizing Black men who didn't support Harris as a "very bad look."
