Who Is David Axelrod? Age, Biography, and Wiki
David Axelrod, born on February 22, 1955, is a prominent American political consultant and strategist known for his key role in developing campaign strategies for major political figures, notably President Barack Obama. As of 2025, Axelrod is 70 years old, with a wealth of experience and insights in the political landscape. He has played a crucial role in shaping modern political communication and strategy, making him a recognizable figure in the political consulting arena.
| Occupation | President |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 22, 1955 |
| Age | 70 Years |
| Birth Place | New York City, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
David Axelrod's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While detailed physical statistics may not be extensively documented, David Axelrod is considered to have a commanding presence in his professional appearances. Although his height and weight are not publicly disclosed, he is often seen dressed in a professional manner, reflecting his serious approach to politics.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, David Axelrod is known to have a stable family life. He has been married to Susan Axelrod since 1975, and together they have two children. While there may not be widespread information regarding his personal relationships outside of this marriage, Axelrod is known for cherishing his family and maintaining a relatively private life beyond his political career.
He was raised in a liberal Jewish family and had his bar mitzvah ceremony at the Brotherhood Synagogue in Manhattan. His mother, Myril Bennett (née Davidson), was a journalist at PM, a liberal-leaning 1940s newspaper, and later an advertising executive at Young & Rubicam.
His father, Joseph Axelrod, was a psychologist and avid baseball fan, who emigrated from Eastern Europe to the United States at the age of eleven. He attended Public School 40 in Manhattan. Axelrod's parents separated when he was eight years old.
In 2021, Axelrod disclosed in a CNN op-ed that his father suffered from severe clinical depression, unbeknownst at the time to the family, which led to his suicide when the younger Axelrod was 19.
Net Worth and Salary
David Axelrod's estimated net worth in 2025 is around $10 million. His income primarily stems from his years as a political consultant, journalist, and author. With a successful career in political strategy and media, Axelrod has built a substantial financial portfolio. His work continues to engage audiences, contributing to his ongoing income through various media roles and speaking engagements.
Career, Business, and Investments
Axelrod's career took off with his significant contributions to political campaigns, especially during the Obama campaign in 2008. After serving in the White House, he founded the political consulting firm AKPD Message and Media. In addition to his consulting work, Axelrod has dabbled in media, co-hosting a podcast and serving as a commentator on political issues across various platforms. His investments primarily align with media-related ventures, reflecting his deep connection to storytelling and public engagement.
During the 2008 presidential election, Axelrod worked as the chief strategist to Barack Obama, whom he had first met in the early 1990s. After Obama's election, Axelrod was appointed as Senior Advisor to the President. He left the position in early 2011 to become the Senior Strategist for Obama's successful re-election campaign in 2012.
Following the campaign, Axelrod retired from consulting and served as the director of the University of Chicago Institute of Politics from 2012 until 2023. He has also been a Senior Political Commentator on CNN since 2015.
Social Network
David Axelrod is an active figure on social media, using platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn to share insights on political trends and engage with followers. His Twitter handle, @DavidAxelrod, boasts a significant following where he comments on current events, providing a mix of political analysis and personal reflections. Axelrod’s engagement on social networks allows him to maintain relevance in today’s rapidly evolving political landscape.
Born and raised in New York City, Axelrod started his career as a political reporter for the Chicago Tribune. He subsequently helped lead Paul Simon's successful 1984 bid for the U.S. Senate in Illinois. Forming a political consultancy firm, Axelrod built a reputation as a sought-after Democratic strategist, especially in Illinois.
His clients included Chicago Mayors Harold Washington and Richard M. Daley, to whom he served as a longtime advisor. Axelrod also grew his national profile advising figures like John Edwards during his 2004 presidential campaign and Rahm Emanuel for the 2006 midterms.
Education
Axelrod attended the University of Chicago, where he earned a degree in political science. This educational background has afforded him an in-depth understanding of public policy and political communication, contributing to his successful career in political consulting.
In conclusion, David Axelrod remains a prominent figure in American politics in 2025, with considerable influence through his expertise, personal life, and media presence. His work continues to shape the way political campaigns are executed, making him an enduring figure in the industry.
Describing the appeal of politics, he told the Los Angeles Times, "I got into politics because I believe in idealism. Just to be a part of this effort that seems to be rekindling the kind of idealism that I knew when I was a kid, it's a great thing to do.
So I find myself getting very emotional about it." At thirteen years old, he was selling campaign buttons for Robert F. Kennedy. After graduating from New York's Stuyvesant High School in 1972, Axelrod attended the University of Chicago, where he majored in political science.
Axelrod described his childhood as "very turbulent", although he did not specify the exact details that elicited this characterization.
