New York state Sen. James Skoufis endorses Ken Martin in race for DNC chair

By 
 January 16, 2025

Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Jaime Harrison revealed late last year that he would not run for another term following Vice President Harris' election loss.

While several figures are seeking to replace him, one powerful Democrat recently dropped out of the race. 

New York lawmaker endorses Minnesota Democrat

According to The Hill, New York state Democratic Sen. James Skoufis announced on Thursday that his campaign has come to an end.

What's more, Skoufis explained in a statement that he is throwing his support behind Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party Chair Ken Martin.

"I am endorsing Ken because he’s a man of integrity and I have deep respect for his vision, charisma, guts, and undefeated record in statewide races. I know that he, like me, is laser-focused on winning, not spinning," Skoufis declared.

"He will recenter what is most important for our party: expanding the map and rebuilding our once-big Democratic tent by taking power outside of the DC Beltway and kicking the out-of-touch consultant class to the curb," Skoufis continued.

Martin calls Skoufis "an invaluable asset"

"Ken shares these imperatives, and I know that under his leadership, the next iteration of the party will shed our elitist reputation, deliver for the working class, and return us to electoral dominance," the New York lawmaker went on to say.

For his part, Martin put out a separate statement in which he praised Skoufis for being "an invaluable asset to today’s Democratic Party."

"Senator Skoufis has proven himself to be an effective, fresh messenger who has built the diverse coalitions needed to help Democrats win in deep red districts," Martin asserted.

Martin went on to express gratitude to Skoufis for the endorsement and said that he is "honored" to have him "as an advocate for my campaign."

Two other contenders have picked up endorsements

The Hill pointed out how Martin currently has 51 endorsements ahead of the DNC's chair election scheduled for February 1.

Meanwhile, Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair Ben Wikler has gotten endorsements from high-profile Democrats such as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

Another DNC chair hopeful is Maryland Democratic Gov. Martin O’Malley, who has been endorsed by more than 60 current and former mayors.

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