The Democratic National Committee finally published its long‑awaited post‑mortem of the 2024 loss on Thursday, after Ken Martin repeatedly promised a full audit, delayed it through fall, then claimed it would never appear. The surprise release followed a CNN probe and revealed a volunteer‑run draft prepared by consultant Paul Rivera. The document’s existence, not its content, sparked immediate suspicion.

Spanning 192-page PDF, the report offers little insight: it never mentions Israel or Gaza, and provides only generic exhortations like “identify leaders who will deliver positive change.” It cites North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein’s win over Kamala Harris’s rival as proof that “the problem wasn’t policy or brand but Harris herself,” a conclusion many deem flimsy.

Fundraisers now question Martin’s stewardship; Run for Something’s Amanda Litman says donors are withholding contributions, fearing the DNC is “nearly insolvent.” Party insiders, from centrist Blue Dog founders to progressive operatives, call for Martin’s removal, arguing his mishandling undermines donor confidence and hampers year‑round organizing. The autopsy’s release therefore intensifies a leadership crisis within the party.

With major donors pausing contributions, the DNC faces a shortfall that could curtail advertising purchases and grassroots infrastructure ahead of the 2028 cycle. Campaign consultants warn that without a swift leadership change, the party may struggle to compete with the Republican’s year‑round war rooms, eroding its competitive edge in swing states.