New Book Reveals Tensions Between Obama and the Democratic Party

Former President Barack Obama attempted to distance himself from the Democratic Party, which he left in disarray following his presidency, according to revelations from a recent book. The publication titled ‘Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House’, released by William Morrow and Company, offers insights into Obama’s complicated relationship with the party.

Authored by political journalists Jonathan Allen of NBC News and Amie Parnes of The Hill, the book claims that Obama was never fully committed to the Democratic Party. The authors suggest that unlike former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and current President Joe Biden, Obama primarily sought support from a network of Black professionals during his campaigns.

The Impact of Organizing for Action

One of the significant claims in the book is that Obama’s establishment of Organizing for Action in 2012, a nonprofit organization intended to support his legislative goals post-re-election, significantly weakened the Democratic Party. The book argues that although Organizing for Action did not achieve its intended objectives, it created a power struggle within the party.

The authors quote a Black party operative who bluntly stated that ‘Obama destroyed that s—‘, emphasizing how Organizing for Action competed with the Democratic Party for influence and resources.

Attempts to Rebuild the Party

The narrative also portrays how the Clintons, alongside Biden and other party figures, sought to rebuild the party’s infrastructure in the aftermath of Obama’s exit in 2016. This rebuilding process aimed to prevent far-left Democrats from assuming control that could threaten the party’s traditional values.

Through the years, establishment Democrats focused on placing loyalists in key positions within national and state committees. One ally of Biden highlighted that the Clintons played a crucial role in these maneuvers, ensuring that progressives did not dominate the party.

Obama’s Hesitation Toward Kamala Harris

‘Fight’ further explores Obama’s hesitance to endorse former Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming 2024 election, reflecting concerns regarding her ability to win against now-President Donald Trump. The book indicates that Obama doubted Harris’s capacity to secure a victory in the forthcoming election, a sentiment that reportedly frustrated her.

Obama ultimately backed Harris five days after Biden announced he would not seek reelection in 2024. However, this delay reportedly caused tension that required some reconciliation between the two prominent Democrats.

Remarks from Michelle Obama

Despite the strains, Michelle Obama, the former first lady, showed her support for Harris at the Democratic National Convention in August 2024 after Harris secured the party nomination. Michelle praised Harris, stating, ‘Kamala Harris is more than ready for this moment.’ She further described Harris as one of the most qualified candidates in history for the presidency, a sentiment rooted in respect for their shared heritage.

The Declining Influence of Obama

Political analysts are beginning to question Obama’s ongoing influence within the Democratic Party, with some stating that he is increasingly out of touch with the electorate’s sentiments, especially regarding Trump’s resurgence. Political commentator Ben Burgess, for instance, noted that Obama’s recent speeches suggest a disconnect with the reasons behind Trump’s victory.

Burgess reflected on Obama’s rhetorical prowess but pointed out that a critical understanding of the political landscape has eluded him.

Understanding the Trump Phenomenon

‘Fight’ delves into the implications of Trump’s reelection and the ramifications for the Democratic Party’s future. Based on interviews with over 150 political insiders, the book examines the undercurrents that shaped the political battles during Obama’s tenure and beyond.

As the Democratic Party navigates its current challenges, it becomes evident that the nuances of Obama’s legacy continue to provoke debate and reflection among party members and analysts alike.

Furthermore, it remains to be seen how these dynamics will evolve as the Democrats prepare for the upcoming presidential election cycle.

This article was contributed to by Fox News’ Hanna Panreck and Emma Colton.