Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor chair to lead party still reeling from extensive losses

Summary

Ken Martin, chair of Minnesota’s Democratic–Farmer–Labor party, won the race to lead the Democratic National Committee, defeating Wisconsin’s Ben Wikler.

Martin takes over as Democrats grapple with major losses in the 2024 elections and seek to reconnect with working-class voters.

Supporters see his leadership as key to rebuilding the party, while critics worry it signals a continuation of the status quo.

His first major test will be the 2026 midterms as Democrats attempt to reclaim the House and rebuild their electoral strategy.

  • ZaktorEnglish
    3·
    10 hours ago

    Wilker, his opponent, was also supported by two billionaires but Ken wasn’t.

    Sure, Matin wasn’t supported by two billionaires, he was only supported by one. That’s only 50% as corrupt!

    Some candidates criticized Wikler for relying on billionaires to fund his campaign. George Soros and Reid Hoffman, the LinkedIn cofounder, each gave Wikler $250,000, according to federal filings.

    Martin received a donation from a billionaire as well — Vance Opperman, a Minnesota-based businessman, donated $100,000. Martin has defended the party’s need to accept money from wealthy donors to keep up with Republicans. He has said he would not take contributions from people who do not share his values.

    https://www.wbaltv.com/article/democrats-elect-ken-martin-party-leader-in-minnesota-as-their-national-chair/63640066