In the wake of a WikiLeaks release on Friday which showed that certain top Democratic National Committee officials looked for ways to potentially damage Bernie Sanders’ campaign and suggested complaining to CNN after Sanders criticized Wasserman Schultz on the air, Democratic Party officials plan to limit Wasserman Schultz’s exposure at the convention and say she won’t speak.
Debbie Wasserman Schultz, whose stewardship of the DNC has been under fire through most of the presidential primary process, will not have a major speaking role in an effort “to keep the peace” in the party, a Democrat familiar with the decision said. The revelation comes following the release of nearly 20,000 emails.
…”She’s been quarantined,” another top Democrat said, following a meeting Saturday night.
This is seen as a concession to Sanders, who has been furious at Wasserman Schultz for what he believed was favoritism to Clinton.
Democratic officials are considering as one possibility finding someone besides Wasserman Schultz to preside over the convention, perhaps by naming a new permanent convention chairperson to handle podium and administrative duties — though not to serve as chair of the Democratic National Committee itself, the source said.
…The party’s officials fear that giving Wasserman Schultz in a prominent role would lead to widespread booing on the convention floor from Sanders’ supporters and delegates.
Possible replacements for Wasserman Schultz are Nancy Pelosi who is the honorary chair, or Rep. Marcia Fudge (D-OH) who is reportedly next in line as the convention’s chairperson. Wasserman Schultz is facing a primary challenge in her Florida district in August and officials are also concerned punishing her might damage her chances of reelection there.
UPDATED:
On Sunday morning, Bernie Sanders renewed calls for Wasserman Schultz to step down.
