She quit the party.
A former Democratic strategist has left the party, citing feelings of hopelessness due to what she describes as “hypocrisy” and an overreliance on celebrity endorsements that disconnect them from everyday Americans. Evan Barker, who previously raised significant funds for Democratic campaigns, expressed her frustration during an appearance on “Fox & Friends,” particularly after Vice President Kamala Harris participated in a high-profile virtual fundraiser hosted by Oprah Winfrey.
Barker reflected on her experience at the Democratic National Convention, where she had hoped to find renewed inspiration but instead felt alienated among what she perceived as an elite crowd disconnected from the realities of most citizens. In a recent op-ed, she detailed her journey from raising tens of millions for the party to distancing herself from what she believes is a failure to connect with the needs of ordinary people.
She pointed to the control that wealthy donors exert over party policies as a core issue, remarking on how many of her family members—who once supported Barack Obama—now favor Donald Trump. Barker emphasized that this shift stems from a disconnect between Democratic leaders and the concerns of working-class voters, asserting that while Republicans also face similar donor influence, Democrats are particularly hypocritical about it.
The “Unite for America Rally,” hosted by Winfrey, featured numerous celebrities discussing optimistic themes but failed to address pressing economic concerns, according to Barker. She criticized the event as superficial, saying that it ignores the struggles faced by everyday Americans, including her grandmother who is living on a fixed income amidst rising living costs.
Barker concluded her remarks by expressing her disillusionment with the party, describing it as having evolved into something unrecognizable. She voiced a desire for the Democratic Party to focus more on real solutions for struggling families rather than relying on celebrity endorsements and optimistic rhetoric, which she finds frustrating and out of touch.
