Robert Kennedy Houton, a Bethesda resident and former Maryland U.S. Senate candidate, has announced his candidacy for chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC). Houton is joining a crowded field of candidates seeking to replace outgoing Chair Jaime Harrison. Houton, who focused on combating opioid abuse during his Senate campaign, emphasized his commitment to public health advocacy in his letter to DNC members. He received 1,946 votes in the Senate primary, finishing ninth in a 10-candidate field. Houton also drew inspiration from the late U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy.
The DNC is set to pick its new chair during its winter meeting in February, with several high-profile candidates in the running. Houton’s entry into the race adds another Marylander to the mix, challenging former Gov. Martin O’Malley’s candidacy. O’Malley was the first to declare his candidacy, highlighting his governing experience and past leadership roles within the Democratic Party. The upcoming DNC leadership selection process is expected to include public forums for the candidates, allowing them to make their case to voting members like Maryland attorney Robbie Leonard.
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