Local
Governor Kaine tapped to lead Democratic National Committee
By: Leah Fabel
Examiner Staff Writer
January 5, 2009
 |
| Kaine, whose gubernatorial term ends in one year, will take the DNC job on a part-time basis until January 2010, when he’ll assume full-time duties. (AP file) |
|
|
Kaine, whose gubernatorial term ends in one year, will take the DNC job on a part-time basis until January 2010, when he’ll assume full-time duties. Virginia’s constitution bars governors from serving two consecutive terms.
The long-time Virginia politician was one of Obama’s first and most vociferous backers for president, but was widely perceived as out of the running for administrative positions because of his stated intentions to complete his four-year term.
Upon being asked about the chairmanship at a Richmond press conference in November, Kaine said “That is not something I’m going to do ... I would view it as taking my eye too much off the ball about things that need to happen here.”
The state is currently battling a $3 billion budget shortfall and drastic spending cuts.
The chairmanship position, however, with its directive to promote Democratic candidates nationwide while working to defeat political opponents, seems almost custom-made for Kaine.
“He likes the partisan role,” said Larry Sabato, a political analyst and University of Virginia politics professor. “He’s been a highly political governor — and successful in that realm.”
Kaine’s opponents — particularly those who have suffered the consequences of his party enthusiasm — will almost certainly use his new role as evidence that he’s not interested in reaching across party lines to solve statewide problems, Sabato said.
“But on the whole, it’s a plus for him,” he added. “Inevitably, he’ll get a major appointment once he leaves.”
Officials for the Obama and Kaine administrations did not respond to calls on Sunday. An official announcement of the position is expected later this week.
