Former President Barack Obama has a blunt message for Democrats frustrated by the current political climate under President Trump: stop complaining and take action.
Speaking at a private fundraiser in New Jersey on Friday, Obama urged Democrats to shake off discouragement and get involved, according to remarks obtained by The Hill.
“It’s going to require a little bit less navel-gazing and a little less whining and being in fetal positions,” Obama said. “It’s going to require Democrats to just toughen up.”
He criticized those within the party who have become disengaged or disillusioned.
“Don’t tell me you’re a Democrat, but you’re kind of disappointed right now, so you’re not doing anything. No — now is exactly the time that you get in there and do something.”
Pushing Back Against Political Apathy
The event, also attended by DNC Chair Ken Martin and New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D), marked Obama’s first major fundraising appearance since Democrats’ 2024 losses. The party is currently regrouping amid a Republican-controlled Washington and Trump’s return to power.
Obama specifically called out progressives and liberals who, he said, seem “cowed and intimidated,” unwilling to speak up or stand firm in their beliefs.
He also expressed disappointment with institutions — including law firms and universities — that compromise core values for convenience or financial reasons.
“I’m not impressed by folks who are setting aside their principles for comfort,” he said. “What’s being asked of us is to make some effort to stand up for what’s right — even if it means being a little uncomfortable.”
Eyes on the 2025 Elections
Obama framed the upcoming off-year elections in New Jersey and Virginia as a critical opportunity for Democrats to regain momentum.
“Stop looking for the quick fix. Stop looking for the messiah,” he said. “You have great candidates running right now. Support those candidates.”
Rep. Mikie Sherrill, the Democratic nominee for governor of New Jersey, is running to succeed term-limited Gov. Phil Murphy, and will face Republican Jack Ciattarelli in November. Obama praised Sherrill’s candidacy as part of the broader push to rebuild the party’s strength from the ground up.
A Call to Action
Obama closed with an appeal for urgency and persistence, encouraging Democrats to stay engaged and take responsibility for shaping the country’s future.
“If we all do our jobs over the next year and a half, I think we will rebuild momentum — and we will position ourselves to get this country moving in the direction it should.”
