Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chair Ken Martin is facing intensified scrutiny amid reports of deepening financial problems and internal turmoil. This comes less than 100 days before the November midterm elections.
The DNC is reportedly about $2m in debt, contrasting with the Republican National Committee's approximately $130m cash on hand. Last year, the DNC used its Washington DC headquarters as collateral to obtain a $15m line of credit, according to Notus, citing deed records.
Adding to the financial concerns, The New York Times reported that the DNC has asked vendors to defer sending invoices until after the November midterm elections. Roger Lau, the DNC's executive director, stated that these discussions are standard negotiations.
Internally, Martin became the subject of an HR inquiry in early July after reportedly throwing his phone in the direction of a junior aide's desk during a heated exchange, prompting a formal complaint. This incident, reported by The New York Times, nearly cost him his job and has contributed to his growing isolation within the party.
Calls for Martin's resignation have been renewed, with Congressman Sam Liccardo stating, "Ken Martin must resign." However, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed confidence in Martin, telling reporters on Sunday that the DNC chair has his "full support."