They expressed frustration over the DNC’s break-up with American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten and AFSCME President Lee Saunders — who between them represent millions of members — as the latest sign of a widening gap between party leadership and the labor movement, a once-core part of the Democratic coalition.

Democrats are becoming increasingly frustrated over Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Ken Martin’s leadership and worsening infighting in the committee, Politico reported on Thursday. One anonymous DNC member told Politico they believe Martin — who was elected to the role in February — is “weak and whiny.

In a discussion moderated by newly-elected Ohio Democratic Party Chair Kathleen Clyde, Martin, said that Ohio will be “critical” to Democratic strategy in 2026, with an open governor’s race, Senate race, and vulnerable Democratic House members Emelia Sykes, Greg Landsman and Marcy Kaptur on the ballot.