South Carolina Democrat Jaime Harrison expressed interest in chairing the Democratic National Committee (DNC) on Tuesday after his profile soared during his challenge to the senator. Lindsey Graham
Lindsey Olin GrahamMcConnell Faces Conservative Reaction to Trump’s Criticism Criticism Becomes New Senate Majority Leader Senate Pressures Biden’s Choice for Secretary of State for Iran, China, Russia and Yemen MORE (R).
Harrison told The Washington Post in an interview that he was open to the prospect of leading the DNC and that he has the support of the House of Representatives. Jim Clyburn
James (Jim) Enos ClyburnClyburn: Bush told me that I am the ‘savior’ of Biden’s endorsement LIVE INAUGURATION COVERAGE: Biden signs executive orders; press secretary gives first briefing to Clyburn confident that the House will approve Biden’s agenda despite a narrow majority MORE (DS.C.), a powerful figure in the lower house and a South Carolina kingmaker.
“I can’t cheat on any conversation with Whip, but I know it’s something he seems to think I could do. I would put it that way, ”said Harrison.
Current DNC President Tom Perez
Thomas PerezClinton’s top five choices for vice presidential government Social programs: Triumph of hope over evidence The ‘waste of spending and poor work management’ at Workers’ Comp. MORE he must not remain in office, and President-elect Biden, as party leader, can choose Perez’s replacement. Harrison said he did not speak to Biden about the role he would consider if an offer was extended.
“If this is something they are interested in me doing, I will definitely take a good look,” said Harrison.
Harrison and Clyburn spokesmen did not immediately respond to requests for comment from The Hill. The DNC also did not respond to an inquiry.
Clyburn’s support may increase Harrison’s chances of getting the job. The whip of the majority was crucial to reviving Biden’s weak presidential campaign early in the primary season and is believed to maintain significant influence over the former vice president.
Harrison is a former lobbyist and chairman of the Democratic Party of South Carolina and ran for president of the DNC in 2016, giving up and supporting Perez.
But the South Carolina Democrat gained national attention in the 2020 cycle during his Senate race against Graham. Although he lost by about 10 points, he raised a record amount of money and gained influence with figures from the national party who noticed the buzz surrounding his remote campaign.
Harrison told the Post that other Democrats had contacted him about Perez’s possible success.
“In the past few days, I’ve received a lot of text messages from people who say, I heard Mr. Clyburn or I heard James Carville mention you,” he said. “Listen, I’m flattered. But you know, in the end, it’s about who the president-elect will decide to be the next president. “