I'd prefer that she be chairman, but you've got to start somewhere........

[marmar]

After holding prominent positions in the House Democratic caucus for 17 years, California Rep. Barbara Lee is hoping to make the jump to leadership.

The lawmaker told POLITICO on Friday that she’s formally launched her campaign for the No. 5 position among House Democrats — even though the election is nearly 17 months away.

The vice chairman position will come open after the 2016 elections, as its current occupant, New York Rep. Joe Crowley, is term limited from serving a third term and will likely move up in the ranks. The race will attract a significant number of contenders as many rank-and-file members are eager to advance in a caucus that has been dominated by more senior leaders.

Lee said she’s announcing early because she wants her colleagues to know that she’ll be a contender in what will be a crowded campaign.

.....(snip).....

Lee is best known for her aggressive anti-war stance. In the aftermath of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks she loudly protested President George W. Bush’s decision to go to war in Afghanistan and Iraq. Lee is also an outspoken advocate on poverty issues. She chairs a Democratic caucus task force on poverty, income inequality and opportunity. .............(more)

Read more: http://www.politico.com/story/2015/06/rep-barbara-lee-makes-early-bid-for-democratic-vice-chairman-post-118953.html#ixzz3dzVQocR8

[LWolf]

1. She IS a leader. nt

[Dems to Win]

2. I'd prefer she be Speaker of the House

Our wisest member of Congress. If we were a smart country, Barbara Lee would be leading us.

[FlatBaroque]

3. I would prefer she serve as our first AA, female president

She is awesome.

[Zorra]

4. Leadership: Vice President Lee under President Sanders. nt

[Scuba]

5. K&R