In the 2024 presidential election, former President Barack Obama played a key role in supporting Kamala Harris, urging voters to view the race as a test of character rather than just policy. However, the outcome of the election painted a different picture, with Donald Trump securing a decisive Electoral College victory, 312 to 226, and winning the popular vote by nearly three million—marking the first Republican victory in the popular vote since George W. Bush in 2004.

Trump’s win dealt a significant blow to the Democratic Party and Obama’s political legacy, exposing fractures within the party. With Republicans now controlling both the White House and Congress, the Democrats find themselves sidelined until the 2026 midterm elections. This defeat has sparked internal discussions within the party, with many questioning whether reliance on past leaders like Obama is hindering their ability to adapt.

A push for new leadership is gaining traction, with some calling for a complete restructuring of the party. Democratic governors, forming the coalition Governors Safeguarding Democracy, are positioning themselves as the future of the party. The Democratic Party faces a crucial decision: stick with traditional strategies or embrace new leadership to regain influence and effectively challenge the reshaped Republican Party in 2028.