“If you want to work in investment banking, you go to Wall Street. If you want to work in politics, you go to Washington,” Paul D. Craney reasoned when he decided four years ago to come to the District.
He had been working in politics in Massachusetts. Before that, he was legislative aide to New Jersey state Assemblyman Steve Corodemus. Those states have robust two-party systems. Craney soon realized the District is mostly a donkey town.
Still, in 2007, he applied for and was hired as executive director of the D.C. Republican Committee. “I knew then there was a need for a loyal opposition. There were glaring issues that someone needed to speak on.”
“He was the first professional executive director we’ve had since I’ve been on the committee,” DCGOP Chairman Robert Kabel told me.
Now, Craney’s leaving the DCGOP, returning to Massachusetts. “He did a wonderful job broadening the base,” continued Kabel.
There’s no question about that.
Craney — working with Kabel — helped elevate Republicans’ stature and began transforming politics in the city. He helped field dynamic political candidates for local races, raised questions about the efficacy of certain public policies, fought to put Republicans on important commissions, including the elections board, and generally challenged the status quo.
When the D.C. Council early this year created an ethics board, it made a space for a “minority party” representative. That designation undoubtedly was a recognition of the role the DCGOP played, demanding higher standards and greater accountability. Tim Day, as the Republican candidate for the Ward 5 seat, alerted the public to the incumbent’s secret slush fund. That led to an investigation of then-Councilman Harry Thomas Jr., who subsequently admitted he embezzled more than $300,000 earmarked for disadvantaged youth. The U.S. attorney has continued probing actions by Thomas and his associates.
“[The DCGOP] was in the parking lot,” civic leader Terry Lynch told me. “[Craney] helped them get onto the field.”
Yes, I know, there’s only one Republican currently holding elective office in the city. But, said Craney, turnout in last year’s special election is proof “our base is fired up and taking serious interest in the District. We’re on a pretty high note.”
Can that last?
Not only is Craney leaving. But most of the officers have termed out, including Kabel, although he’s running for national committeeman.
“There will be a quite a bit of change. But change is good,” said Craney.
“We’ve created a pretty solid organization,” said Kabel, adding Nick Jeffress as the new executive director “will be really good. It may take him a while to get up and running.”
Jeffress is the same age Craney was when he arrived: 26. Kabel said the DCGOP has added a large number of 20- and 30-year-olds to its membership. “That was my objective. That will really change the party for the future.”
Craney will be missed. Let’s hope his replacement is as strong, engaging and successful as he.
Jonetta Rose Barras’ column appears on Monday and Wednesday. She can be reached at [email protected].
