Several DNC members spoke to Politico and shed light on the seeming turmoil brewing within the committee’s ranks, expressing their frustration with Ken Martin, who they described as distracted and ineffective in bringing the party back together following its 2024 electoral losses.

Democrats are becoming increasingly frustrated over Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Ken Martin’s leadership and worsening infighting in the committee, Politico reported on Thursday. One anonymous DNC member told Politico they believe Martin — who was elected to the role in February — is “weak and whiny.

In a discussion moderated by newly-elected Ohio Democratic Party Chair Kathleen Clyde, Martin, said that Ohio will be “critical” to Democratic strategy in 2026, with an open governor’s race, Senate race, and vulnerable Democratic House members Emelia Sykes, Greg Landsman and Marcy Kaptur on the ballot.