Jul 11, 2025 - Politics & Policy

Scoop: Obama returns to fundraising circuit for DNC

Stef W. Kight

Former President Barack Obama waves to fans during the game between the LA Clippers and the Detroit Pistons — Former President Obama waves to fans during the game between the LA Clippers and the Detroit Pistons on March 5 in Inglewood, Calif. Photo: Meg Oliphant/Getty Images

Former President Obama is joining DNC chair Ken Martin for a high-dollar fundraiser in Red Bank, New Jersey, on Friday evening, Axios has learned.

Why it matters: It's Obama's first fundraiser since the party's devastating 2024 losses, and it comes after a string of public headaches for the DNC leadership team.

The event comes ahead of New Jersey's gubernatorial and state legislative elections in November — viewed as an early bellwether for next year's midterms, when Democrats are desperate to regain some political power.

Zoom in: Outgoing New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy (D) and his wife, Tammy Murphy, are hosting the fundraiser, according to an invite obtained by Axios.

The "dinner and discussion" will also include Democratic gubernatorial candidate Rep. Mikie Sherrill, according to a source familiar.
The event is sold out, and proceeds will go to the DNC as it readies for high-stakes 2025 and 2026 elections.
Obama raised $85 million for Democrats last cycle, according to his office.

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Scoop: Obama returns to fundraising circuit for DNC

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