Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Ken Martin feels optimistic about the party’s efforts as they prepare for the crucial elections of 2025.
“I expect to win New Jersey and Virginia,” Martin stated in a recent interview, highlighting that these are the only states holding gubernatorial elections this year. “We’re pretty hopeful about this opportunity.”
Following the challenges from last year—when Democrats lost both the White House and Senate, and couldn’t regain a House majority—there’s a renewed focus on making a strong showing in next week’s elections.
The New Jersey and Virginia elections are viewed as initial assessments of former President Donald Trump’s policies, as well as indicators for the upcoming midterm elections, where Democrats aim to regain congressional control.
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The DNC has allocated over $7 million this summer and fall—its largest amount ever—for voter engagement and organizing in New Jersey, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, with a critical aim of retaining three Supreme Court seats in Pennsylvania.
“Every election matters, whether it’s a local or federal one. Every success here builds momentum,” Martin emphasized.
Since Trump returned to office in January, Martin noted that there have been 45 elections, and in these, Democrats have generally outperformed expectations by about 16 percentage points. Yet, he added, “We can’t be complacent.”
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When discussing the recent electoral setbacks for Democrats, Martin expressed his focus on maximizing votes in the upcoming days, stating, “I anticipate victories in New Jersey and Virginia. Our candidates are running strong campaigns.”
While on a two-day tour in Pennsylvania, Martin was set to return to New Jersey and Virginia to encourage voter turnout.
In New Jersey, polling indicates a tight race between Democratic candidate Rep. Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli to take over from the outgoing Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy.
Regarding potential Republican progress in New Jersey, Martin mentioned in an interview that “New Jersey is likely a crucial state for Donald Trump to help halt or at least limit the Democratic momentum we’re witnessing this year.” He acknowledged that the race would probably be very close.
He did point out, though, that historically, Democrats have struggled to secure a third term for a governor there over the past 50 years.
Still, Sherrill is convinced that “we’re running a strong campaign with a message that connects with New Jersey residents.”
In Virginia, the Democratic effort has been complicated by conflicts in the attorney general’s race, impacting their control of the governor’s mansion. The candidate, former Rep. Abigail Spanberger, is currently fending off Republican criticisms, although polls indicate she has a steady lead over her opponent, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earl Sears.
Central to the Virginia race is Democratic candidate Jay Jones. He faced backlash for a 2022 text that controversially compared then-House Speaker Todd Gilbert to infamous historical figures. Calls for his withdrawal from the race have arisen from Republicans.
Martin had condemned those remarks, emphasizing that Jones needed to apologize, which he did. When asked if he should have pushed for Jones’ resignation, Martin stated that it was ultimately up to the Virginia electorate to decide the implications of his comments.
Martin flagged the Pennsylvania Supreme Court retention election as crucial for the DNC, warning, “What we’ve witnessed is an attempt by wealthy donors and special interests to influence the highest courts across the nation, undermining our democracy.”
He went on to explain, “This election is vital for us; if we succeed here, it could embolden these billionaires to try similar tactics in other areas.”
In response, the Republican National Committee (RNC) called attention to its fundraising advantages, characterizing the DNC under Martin’s leadership as highly ineffective. RNC national press secretary Kiersten Pels stated, “Martin has turned the DNC into a debt-ridden circus led by radicals. Whatever unfolds next Tuesday won’t reflect positively on his actions.” She further mentioned that the DNC is struggling to maintain its position in traditionally blue states.
