If former President Barack Obama really was the puppeteer pulling Joe Biden’s strings, he has a lot to answer for, writes columnist Miranda Devine.
| Published April 5, 2025
A recent New York Post opinion article highlights the diminishing influence of former President Barack Obama within the Democratic Party, especially in the aftermath of the 2024 election cycle. Initially perceived as a guiding force behind President Joe Biden’s administration, Obama’s direct involvement appeared limited during critical moments. Notably, he was reportedly unaware of Biden’s pivotal debate performance, learning of its impact through his phone rather than firsthand viewing. Furthermore, during internal party deliberations about Biden’s potential replacement, Obama advocated for a mini-primary to select a new candidate, explicitly opposing Vice President Kamala Harris as the nominee. This stance has led to perceptions of Obama attempting to sideline Harris, contributing to a sense of betrayal among Democratic voters and signaling the end of the “Obama era” within the party.
IMPLICATIONS
Here are the key implications of the reported decline in Barack Obama’s influence within the Democratic Party, from both a strategic and political standpoint:
🧭 1. Fractured Party Leadership
The fact that only 4% of Democrats now see Obama as the party’s leader suggests deep internal divisions. With no clear unifying figure, the Democratic Party may struggle to present a cohesive message or direction heading into 2024 and beyond.
The authors allege Obama curried favor from a group of “black professionals” for his campaigns, unlike former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, and former President Joe Biden.
🪞 2. Erosion of Obama’s Legacy
If reports are true that Obama tried to stage a “mini-primary” to replace Biden, it risks damaging his image as a respected elder statesman. It could be viewed as undemocratic meddling, weakening his moral authority in the party and beyond.
🔁 3. Shift Toward the Far Left
Obama’s decline in influence may signal that the progressive wing—led by figures like AOC and Bernie Sanders—is taking the reins. This shift could alienate moderates and independents, making general election wins more difficult.
🎯 4. Strategic Disarray Before the Election
If Obama’s behind-the-scenes maneuvering failed, and Biden remains the nominee despite internal doubts, it implies a lack of viable leadership alternatives. The party may appear desperate or unstable, especially if they keep changing narratives.
Obama endorsed Harris five days after Biden announced he would not run for office again in the 2024 race.AFP via Getty Images
💬 5. Republican Messaging Opportunity
The GOP can frame this as further proof that Democrats are in disarray, controlled by elite figures who are out of touch with voters. Obama’s perceived interference could become a talking point about hypocrisy in Democratic values around democracy and transparency.
The unraveling of Barack Obama’s behind-the-scenes influence reveals a Democratic Party in identity crisis. Once the unchallenged symbol of unity and inspiration, Obama is now seen by some in his own party as out of step, overreaching, and even unwanted. His failed attempt to steer post-Biden succession planning—while opposing Kamala Harris—has fractured loyalties and exposed deep tensions within Democratic leadership.
This moment signals a power vacuum at the top of the party, a loss of strategic clarity, and a growing divide between the establishment, progressives, and disillusioned voters—all while the clock ticks toward 2024.
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