About David Axelrod

David Axelrod, AB'76, is a Distinguished Senior Fellow at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy. A University of Chicago alumnus, Axelrod is a 35-year veteran of American politics and journalism.

Prior to becoming a political consultant, Axelrod spent eight years as a reporter and columnist for the Chicago Tribune, including as the City Hall bureau chief. As a political consultant, Axelrod has managed media and communications strategy for more than 150 local, state, and national campaigns.

Axelrod served as Senior Strategist to President Obama's successful 2012 re-election campaign. He served in that same role in then-Senator Obama's 2008 presidential campaign, before going on to serve in the White House as Senior Advisor to the President. After the 2012 campaign, Axelrod turned his focus to the Institute of Politics to help inspire and train the next generation of leaders.