Obama Advisor Speaks at IOP

David Axelrod, Senior Advisor to President Obama and chief strategist of his 2008 presidential campaign, spoke last night at the John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum, reflecting on his experiences in the Obama administration during its first ten months in office.

Responding to questions posed by Abby D. Phillip ’10, who is a current Crimson news executive, and Undergraduate Council President Andrea R. Flores ’10, Axelrod discussed the behind-the-scenes aspects of his work with the president. He emphasized he finds working at the White House, despite its hectic and challenging nature, extremely enjoyable—largely due to the atmosphere created by Obama.

“The character of this White House, and every White House, in certain ways, reflects the character of the person who sits in the Oval Office,” said Axelrod.

Although he spoke of being inspired by politicians who are there for “the right reasons,” Axelrod also expressed his disappointment at the lack of bipartisan cooperation in Congress.

“I think Americans want a strong two-party system and want to see the loyal opposition challenge the assumptions and ideas of the party in power,” said Axelrod. “But they want it done in a constructive way, and sometimes, in the last ten months, we haven’t seen that.”

In response to a student question, Axelrod explained the administration’s attempts to combat the danger of falling out of touch with the average American.

“We try to get out, try to read those letters, try to talk to people every day outside of DC,” said Axelrod. “Sadly, the black arts of polling and focus groups become useful because they give you the chance to hear what people are saying in other places. It is a big challenge.”

Audience member Michael T. Galli ’13 said the glimpse into Obama’s White House was refreshing. “Sometimes we forget why we are here at Harvard getting this education, so hearing Axelrod’s perspectives was very invigorating,” said Galli.

Axelrod echoed a sentiment familiar to many students when describing his daily routine.

“Sleep is not a commodity that is easily acquired in Washington,” he said. “So I just drink these Diet Cokes.”