Obama Mobilizes Support in Key States Ahead of Critical Off-Year Elections
FILE PHOTO: U.S. President Joe Biden and former U.S. President Barack Obama greet guests after they held an event about the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid at the White House in Washington, U.S., April 5, 2022. REUTERS/Leah Millis//File Photo
By Jim Thomas | Saturday, 01 November 2025 10:56 AM EDT
Former President Barack Obama is campaigning in New Jersey and Virginia to boost Democratic turnout ahead of pivotal off-year elections that could signal the party’s trajectory under President Donald Trump’s second term.
Obama will join Democratic gubernatorial nominees Abigail Spanberger in Virginia and Mikie Sherrill in New Jersey, with party strategists framing the effort as a focus on mobilizing existing supporters rather than persuading new voters. Democratic strategist Chuck Rocha noted that the 2025 races prioritize turnout over persuasion, stating Obama’s presence “does not hurt anything” by reinforcing voter engagement.
Spanberger, a former CIA officer and three-term congresswoman, challenges outgoing GOP Gov. Glenn Youngkin in Virginia. Sherrill seeks to replace term-limited Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy in New Jersey, facing Republican Jack Ciattarelli, who is backed by Trump.
Democratic victories in these contests could provide momentum after last year’s losses, including the White House and congressional control. The party has increasingly relied on state governors to counterbalance federal power. Obama’s involvement highlights his continued appeal among Democrats, with a recent Gallup poll showing his 59% approval rating as the highest among living former presidents.
However, some strategists caution that Obama’s influence may wane over time, citing past failures of his endorsed candidates in the 2024 cycle. Republicans are also campaigning aggressively but lack high-profile former leaders offering direct support.
The outcomes in Virginia and New Jersey will be closely watched as indicators of national political shifts ahead of the 2026 midterms. Meanwhile, a California ballot measure backed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, which could shift five U.S. House seats to Democrats, is also drawing attention.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. Jim Thomas is a writer based in Indiana with a background in political science and law.
