Obama's Choice for New Democratic Party Chairman Stirs Tensions
Despite the gushing over Barack Obama, the Democratic Party isn't one big happy family. Not only are some Democrats taking issue with elements of Obama's emerging economic recovery plan, but there are lingering hard feelings in the party organization itself. These problems were evident when Obama named Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine as the new chairman of the Democratic National Committee yesterday.
Media commentators immediately noted that Howard Dean, the just departed chairman, was not at the announcement, raising the prospect that he had been snubbed. One of his antagonists has been Rahm Emanuel, now the incoming White House chief of staff for Obama. When he chaired the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Emanuel tangled with Dean over strategy—and, apparently, hard feelings remain.
Dean's sometimes abrasive personality also didn't endear him to more than a few party insiders. Dean's supporters say he was traveling to American Samoa but would have been pleased to attend the Obama-Kaine session if he had been asked. In addition, Dean was hoping for a cabinet job in the Obama administration—perhaps as secretary of health and human services, where his background as a medical doctor would have been helpful. But he never got any of those jobs.
Reader Comments
Democratic chairman
You can say all you want about Howard Dean but I think he was the best one we democrats have ever had. I have been a democrat all my life and he is the only one to actually do what they say. He took the slogan from the court house to the white house and really did it.all the other chairman we have had only gave it lip service. HE made it happen. HE is a true democrat. THANK MR DEAN,I APPLAUD YOU.
National Democratic Party Chair
Ray is right. Republican, Democrat, or Independent, it's time to quit bickering and support the next administration or get out of the way. Reid and Pelosi, and the rest of the Congressional incumbents who think they have the seat for life, are the real opponents to Obama. Party has nothing to do with it. It's old power and earmarks, versus new ideas and do what's right for the country not your backyard. Come on folks, make these incumbents accountable when they don't compromise or play ball. Send them E mail, and if they don't come around, vote them out!
Rebuild Both Parties!!!
The Dems clearly need to rebuild their image away from "Dishwater Dull" Reid and "Prancing" Pelosi having lost all credibility the past two years. They should be looking to rebuild their party around credible folks like Durbin, while the Republicans should look to rebuild around Chuck Hagel. Clearly the old political wranging must stop as the money is gone and there's nothing left to wrangle about. Our nation is on the verge of complete collapse so serious consideration must be given to our leadership. In 9 days there will be a new sheriff in town to rebuild our nation and anyone who is not on board to support him 100% must fall to the rear. He is our only partner at the dance at present!!!
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