O’Malley taking ‘hard look’ at run for DNC chairman

Former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley is exploring a run for the chairmanship of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) as more Democrats throw their names into the ring.

{mosads}O’Malley, who mounted an unsuccessful run for president this election cycle, said on Friday that he’s been encouraged by Democrats to mount a run and is “taking a hard look” at it.

“Since the election, I have been approached by many Democrats who believe our party needs new leadership,” O’Malley said in a statement. 

“I’m taking a hard look at DNC Chair because I know how badly we need to reform our nominating process, articulate a bold progressive vision, recommit ourselves to higher wages and a stronger middle class, and return to our roots as a nationwide, grassroots party.”

On Thursday, former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean announced he would run for the top post. Dean served as DNC chairman from 2005 to 2009 and oversaw major Democratic gains during his tenure. 

Rep. Keith Ellison (D-Minn.), meanwhile, has been endorsed by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) for the DNC job. During a call with progressive group Democracy for America (DFA) on Thursday night, Ellison hinted at a bid, and might announce it formally next week.

After devastating losses on Election Day, Democrats are searching for new leadership to help them rebuild their party.

Former DNC chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) resigned her post over the summer after leaked emails revealed officials appearing to tilt the scales for Clinton in the presidential primary and undercut Sanders’s campaign. 

Donna Brazile took over as interim chairwoman, but has also come under fire after leaked emails showed she shared debate questions with the Clinton campaign.