The Times reports that Howard Dean is stepping down as DNC chair.
Howard Dean will not seek a second term as chairman of the Democratic National Committee, ending a tenure marked by an aggressive attempt to reshape the mission of the committee – and to court support by the so-called Netroots - but also marked by frequent quarrels with Democratic leaders over his abilities and the direction he was taking the party.
Mr. Dean’s decision not to seek a second-term was expected after the victory of a Democrat, Barack Obama, in the presidential election last week. New presidents typically install their own leaders of their political party.
Whether or not this is a good or a a bad development depends on the governor's successor, obviously. Among the names being tossed around are David Plouffe and David Axelrod, who led Obama's campaign to a stunning victory. Whoever gets chosen, however, can't just be some D.C. placeholder. The job is too important for that.
