Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

DNC Chair Ken Martin Denies Phone-Throwing, Faces HR Complaint

8/16/2026

40 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

U.S. DNC Chair Ken Martin denied throwing a phone at a staffer’s desk and faced an HR complaint.
At a May meeting Martin demanded leaders sign nondisclosure agreements before discussing leaks.
Finance director Rufus Gifford said staff lost confidence in Martin’s leadership because of the leaks.
The DNC closed June with $16.3 million cash, $18.5 million debt and a $15 million credit line, while the RNC reported $128.5 million cash and no debt.

1 of 1

Story summary

U.S. DNC Chair Ken Martin denied throwing a phone at a staffer’s desk and faced an HR complaint.
At a May meeting Martin demanded leaders sign nondisclosure agreements before discussing leaks.
Finance director Rufus Gifford said staff lost confidence in Martin’s leadership because of the leaks.
The DNC closed June with $16.3 million cash, $18.5 million debt and a $15 million credit line, while the RNC reported $128.5 million cash and no debt.