Wed Jul 16 11:10:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Obama Urges Democrats to “Toughen Up” and Actively Resist Trump Policies**

**RED BANK, NJ –** Former President Barack Obama delivered a forceful call to action to Democrats at a private fundraiser in New Jersey on Friday evening, urging them to overcome their frustration and actively engage in resisting policies enacted under President Donald Trump. The event, hosted by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and his wife Tammy Murphy, raised $2.5 million for the Democratic National Committee.

According to excerpts obtained by CNN, Obama told attendees that Democrats need to “toughen up,” and to stop “navel-gazing” and “whining”. “Now is exactly the time that you get in there and do something,” he said, emphasizing the need to defend principles like free speech even when it’s difficult. “What’s needed now is courage.”

The former president also urged Democrats to focus their energy on the upcoming gubernatorial races in New Jersey and Virginia, saying that winning those elections could provide crucial momentum for the party. He specifically highlighted Democratic nominees Rep. Mikie Sherrill (NJ) and former Rep. Abigail Spanberger (VA), praising them as “powerful spokespersons” with a “pragmatic, commonsense desire to help people.”

“Stop looking for the quick fix. Stop looking for the messiah,” Obama said, urging support for current candidates and investment in the DNC’s data and social media capabilities.

Obama acknowledged internal debates within the Democratic Party, specifically addressing tensions between the left and those advocating for an “abundance agenda.” He argued these are not contradictory, saying Democrats need to focus on “how to deliver for people” and tackle practical issues like affordable housing.

This isn’t the first time Obama has publicly spoken out against the Trump administration. He has previously criticized its tariff policies, warned against infringements on Americans’ rights, and cautioned that the country was “dangerously close” to authoritarianism.

At the fundraiser, Obama reiterated that he wasn’t surprised by the Trump administration and that the Republican Party had abandoned its “guardrails”. He called upon institutions to resist intimidation efforts and urged individuals to “stand up for the things that you think are right.”

Obama concluded by urging Democrats to actively rebuild momentum and position the country in the right direction over the next year and a half. “Be willing to be a little bit uncomfortable in defense of your values. And in defense of the country. And in defense of the world that you want to leave to your children and your grandchildren.”

The fundraiser, which included Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin, drew a mix of in-person and online donations.

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