A leaked recording from a Democratic National Committee leadership call has exposed a dramatic internal feud, with DNC Chair Ken Martin accusing Vice Chair David Hogg of severely undermining his credibility and effectiveness within the party. In the May 15 call, Martin grew emotional as he described how Hogg’s actions have overshadowed his leadership and left him questioning his future in the role.
At the center of the dispute is Hogg’s organization, Leaders We Deserve, which pledged $20 million to fund primary challenges against sitting Democrats. Martin argued the effort distracts from the party’s core mission to oppose Republicans, warning that such internal targeting fractures the DNC at a critical moment.
Several DNC officers blamed Hogg or his allies for leaking the audio, though Hogg denies involvement. Vice Chair Malcolm Kenyatta labeled Hogg’s behavior dishonest, with other members raising concerns about his leadership and loyalty to party unity.
Tensions have reached a boiling point, prompting a review of whether Hogg and Kenyatta were properly elected to their positions. A vote is scheduled this week that could force new internal elections and reshape the DNC’s leadership team.
The leaked audio highlights deepening ideological rifts within the Democratic Party as it prepares for the 2026 midterms. Public exposure of the infighting raises fresh doubts about the party’s stability and focus while Republicans continue to consolidate momentum across key battlegrounds.
