President Biden is widely seen as a drag on the party’s fortunes this cycle as he battles dismal approval ratings. With some candidates not wanting Biden to attend rallies in their states and districts, the absence of Obama’s star power has been notable.
Obama did attend four fundraisers in August and September to raise money for candidates, but some Democrats say that’s not enough given his standing and ability to draw a crowd.
“I think a lot of people have said, ‘Where’s Obama?’” one Democratic strategist acknowledged. “He shouldn’t just be the closer. He’s still seen as the party’s rock star.”
In interviews, other strategists and donors reiterated the sentiment that Obama should be out there more to help the party.
With less than three weeks to go until the election, polls suggest Republicans have seized back the momentum from Democrats.
The struggles of the progressive coalition.
