John McCarthy is a Democratic strategist, political commentator, and former senior advisor for Political Engagement in the White House, who has spent his career building coalitions, shaping political strategy, and helping leaders navigate consequential moments.

As Senior Advisor for Political Engagement to President Biden, John helped lead the White House’s political outreach, building coalitions and managing relationships with elected officials, business leaders, and political stakeholders across all 50 states. He previously served as Deputy National Political Director on Biden’s 2020 presidential campaign, where his work included engaging Republicans and independents as part of the coalition that defeated Donald Trump.

John’s career in Democratic politics spans presidential campaigns, Capitol Hill, and the Democratic Party. He has held senior roles with Hillary for America, Obama for America, and the Democratic National Committee, and served as Chief of Staff to Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-PA) and a policy aide to Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ)

Today, as Principal at Causeway Strategy Group, John counsels candidates, companies, and causes on how to navigate public life.

A regular political commentator, John writes and speaks about the future of the Democratic Party, how Democrats can build broader and more durable coalitions, and the role of civility and common purpose in American politics. His commentary has appeared on MSNBC, CNN, CBS, ABC, FOX and other national outlets.

Since 2025, he has served on the Executive Committee of the Democratic National Committee. He serves on the Board of the Ireland Funds, and the Robert and Ethel Kennedy Human Rights Center.

He is an inaugural senior fellow at Georgetown University’s Initiative for Catholic Social Thought and Public Life.

A native of New Jersey and graduate of The Catholic University of America, he was previously named to Forbes 30 Under 30.