Dean's remarks from 04 while thinking about running for chairman.

[madfloridian]

This was posted by Holly J at the HEP forum. He was meeting with groups of DFA folks apparently. It is interesting his mindset then. If anything it shows me he ran because he thought he could make a difference. He has, too. I doubt she will mind if I share.

Disclaimer: I was one who did not think he should run for chair. I felt he could accomplish more working with DFA. I think I was wrong.

http://howardempowered.blogspot.com/2006/12/repost-meeting-with-howard-dean-1104.html

Because Dean was in a meeting, our group of 14 had a chance to talk first. There were several people you know from the blog including Toscha and Franster. Of course our first topic was Dean and the DNC chair position. We have all heard positive input about this but were also aware of how long time Dean supporters still preferred that he run for President.

..." "Sorry for the delay, but I was just getting some advice from the former DNC chairman." Dean smiled broadly and sat down at the end of the table. I was sitting 3 chairs down on his left and Tom M was to his direct left but not at the table.

Dean broached the topic first so someone was brave enough to ask him what he was thinking regarding the DNC chairmanship. "I am seriously considering it because I don't know that the DNC will reform without me. But if I decide to do it, it won’t be as much fun as what I am doing now. I don't feel I have to agree with everything such as giving corporate tax breaks. I am aware that there are some Democrats that will be nervous thinking of me in this position but I want to emphasize that what ever I do I want what is best for the Democratic Party. I would NEVER do anything to hurt the party. If I run for DNC chair and lose it could be the end of the Democratic Party as it now is. I could tear the party apart. I fear that this could cause the progressives to give up on the party. If I lose, the DFA could be harmed too. That is why I am taking my time to make the right decision."

Someone asked if he took the position would it stop him from running for president. He looked up seriously and said, if I don’t become chairman, there may be no Democratic Party for me to ever run in. I had come armed with this question (thanks to my son who had the foresight to think of it). I knew this was my opportunity so I leaned into the table looking Dean straight on. "If you become DNC chairman, can"t you just 'pull a Cheney and say 'I looked everywhere and I have found the best candidate for President and it is ME?"

Howard eyes twinkled with the thought, grinned with the corners of his mouth and broke out into a full smile. "Well I certainly wouldn’t say anything like that!"

Thanks for sharing, Holly J.