Income inequality at Obama Foundation, as brass thrives and rank and file seeks union

The Obama Foundation’s 2025 tax filing shows that about half of its reported staff earned six-figure salaries, while some employees are seeking union representation. The figures have drawn attention to pay differences as the foundation oversees a major expansion of its programmes and completes its Chicago presidential centre, whose cost has risen sharply.

The filing lists 172 employees earning more than $100,000 among 342 staff, and CEO Valerie Jarrett’s pay at $771,000, up about $15,500 from 2024. The foundation reported $50.4 million in payroll and benefits for 2025, compared with $18.5 million in 2018, and revenue of about $159 million, mostly from contributions and grants. An Ohio State accounting professor said the share of six-figure earners was high compared with typical nonprofits, while noting the foundation’s specialised work; the foundation said its pay is market-competitive. Its current workforce is reported to exceed 500, but the filing predates the centre’s June opening.