There’s a new leader — and a new day — at the Democratic National Committee.
Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Florida has been hand picked by President Obama to be the new chair of the DNC, replacing Tim Kaine, who is now running for Senate in Virginia. Democratic operative and former Gore campaign manager Donna Brazile will temporarily lead the party until Wasserman Schultz can take over the duties full time.
Wasserman Schultz is seen as a strong choice primarily because she can raise money like nobodies business, a veritable requirement for the chair to possess. In 2006, she was surpassed only by Nancy Pelosi and Rahm Emanuel in her ability to raise millions for Democratic candidates, and her skills will be needed as Mr. Obama hopes to raise $1. billion for his reelection. She’s also seen as a no-nonsense leader, having called out Republicans for coining the term “Obamacare” and turning it into a dirty word (the term actually violates the rules of Congress). And as a female leader in a traditionally all-male club, she’s a tireless advocate for women’s health issues, especially the early detection of breast cancer, a disease that she fought and beat herself.
But perhaps the most important note to the appointment of Wasserman Schultz, is that she represents the State of Florida, a state President Obama would love to carry in his reelection bid in 2012. Hmmm…
