Obama campaigns for Democrats in Virginia and New Jersey governor races

Former President Barack Obama is actively campaigning for Democratic gubernatorial candidates Abigail Spanberger in Virginia and Mikie Sherrill in New Jersey ahead of key off-year elections. These races are seen as a gauge of the national mood during President Donald Trump's second term and could influence the political landscape before the 2026 midterms. Obama emphasized the importance of voter turnout to counter what he described as Trump’s reckless policies, urging voters to reject nominees loyal to Trump. Spanberger is leading in Virginia polls and is running to succeed GOP Governor Glenn Youngkin, while Sherrill seeks to replace term-limited Democratic Governor Phil Murphy in New Jersey, facing Republican Jack Ciattarelli, endorsed by Trump. Democrats view victories in these contests as crucial after setbacks in the previous election cycle, though some strategists caution that Obama's influence may be waning over time. Republicans are also actively campaigning, with candidates largely managing their own efforts as Trump remains at his Mar-a-Lago estate.