DNC Chair Ken Martin rips Vice Chair David Hogg in leaked audio recording
Democratic National Committee Vice Chair David Hogg is facing allegations of leaking a private audio recording that exposed infighting within the DNC. The 25-year-old progressive reformer, who survived the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, has been vocal about his group, Leaders We Deserve, planning to support progressive candidates challenging incumbent Democrats in safe districts during the next election.
The leaked recording, obtained by Politico, captures DNC Chair Ken Martin expressing frustration with Hogg’s actions, which he believes have impacted his ability to lead the party. Martin is heard lamenting the difficulties he faces in gaining credibility and raising funds due to the ongoing tensions within the party.
Several party officers have accused Hogg of being behind the leaked audio, claiming that his actions are undermining the party’s efforts to rebuild and strengthen itself. DNC Vice Chair Malcolm Kenyatta criticized Hogg for his lack of integrity in recording and leaking private conversations, while Jane Kleeb, president of the Association of State Democratic Committees, called for an end to the self-serving narratives and deliberate leaking of private conversations by Hogg and his allies.
The DNC is currently holding a vote to nullify the February elections of Hogg and Kenyatta as vice chairs, following a formal complaint alleging a violation of gender-balanced rules. Hogg has defended his actions as an attempt to reform the party, while Martin has reaffirmed his commitment to fighting Republicans and the Trump administration.
In response to the leaked recording, Hogg urged unity within the party and cautioned against playing into the hands of Republicans who seek to sow division among Democrats. He neither confirmed nor denied his involvement in the leak but emphasized the importance of focusing on the larger goal of leading the nation through a moment of crisis.
Despite the controversy, several DNC officers have voiced support for Martin and condemned Hogg’s actions as distractions from the critical work of combating the Republican agenda. They emphasized the need for trust and unity within the party to effectively lead and make a difference in the country.
As the DNC continues to grapple with internal strife, the focus remains on the larger goal of building a stronger and more inclusive Democratic Party to confront the challenges facing the nation. The outcome of the vote on Hogg’s role as vice chair will undoubtedly impact the party’s ability to move forward and achieve its objectives in the upcoming election.
