Former President Barack Obama is stepping back into national politics, openly criticizing elements of President Donald Trump’s second-term agenda. Plus, he’s urging Democrats to resist Republican-led redistricting efforts.
In a video message this week, Obama described Republican redistricting efforts as “an existential threat to our democracy.”
He also celebrated Democrats’ upset victory in an Iowa state Senate special election. He wrote on social media: “When we are organized and support strong candidates who are focused on the issues that matter, we can win. Let’s keep this going.”
Beyond election issues, Obama has increasingly raised alarms about broader threats to U.S. governance. In June, he cautioned that Americans were nearing a moment when they would need to define their core commitments.
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He has also shared media commentary critical of Trump, directing attention to a New York Times interview with columnist Ezra Klein. He argued that the president is creating “crisis and disorder” as a path toward authoritarian control.
Behind the scenes
Alongside his public remarks, Obama has quietly been reaching out to younger Democratic leaders. According to people familiar with the discussions, he recently spoke with New York Assembly member Zohran Mamdani and Texas state Rep. James Talarico.
During the call with Talarico, Obama commended him for reaching voters through different media platforms — including an appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast — and for being willing to take risks to connect with new audiences. Talarico is considering a 2026 Senate run that could put him in a Democratic primary against former Rep. Colin Allred, though Obama did not signal any preference, according to those familiar with the call.
Why is Obama reemerging now?
Obama’s more active role marks a shift from his lower profile earlier in Trump’s second term. His renewed presence comes as Democrats face a leadership gap, with no single figure directing the party outside of opposition to Trump.
Earlier this year, Obama also criticized the Trump administration’s actions against major law firms and warned against undermining the international “rules-based order.”
