DNC Chair Ken Martin is facing criticism from some Democrats due to the party’s debt and his handling of the 2024 election autopsy report. Despite this, Martin’s supporters argue that his approach to spending more money early to invest in organizing, new technology, and building up state parties is working.

Party Debt and Financial Situation

The Democratic National Committee has raised $207 million since last January, but it ended June with $2 million in debt. In contrast, the Republican National Committee has $129 million in cash. Critics have raised concerns about the party’s ability to raise enough money to fulfill its commitments and help financially in the final months leading up to the midterm election.

Martin’s allies have pointed to the party’s wins in 2025 elections and dozens of special elections as evidence that his strategy is working. They have also welcomed the changes he has made to the party internally, including increasing the amount of money sent to state parties.

Support and Criticism

Some state party leaders, such as Jeanna Repass, chair of the Kansas Democratic Party, have expressed their support for Martin. However, others, like Rufus Gifford, who served as finance chair for Democrats’ 2024 presidential campaign, have called for Martin to step down due to the party’s debt and his handling of the autopsy report.

Martin has defended his approach, arguing that it will help Democrats win now and build sustainable infrastructure for future elections. He has also apologized for the handling of the autopsy report, which was initially not released and then partially released after CNN obtained its contents.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.