Democratic Governors Pen Open Letter Calling for Full-Time DNC Chair

Democratic governors are urging the party to appoint a full-time chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

Their call came in an open letter from Democratic Governors Association Chairman Dannel Malloy of Connecticut and DGA Vice Chairman Jay Inslee of Washington, Politico reports.

It was one of five points the governors set out as priorities they would like from the next person who directs the party.

"The long-term success of the Democratic Party depends on diversifying beyond a Washington-centric view and focusing on rebuilding the party from the local level up, especially as we approach two cycles critical for the future of redistricting," Malloy and Inslee wrote in the letter, obtained by Politico.

The letter outlines five principles for evaluating potential DNC chiefs:

• "Real, measurable commitment to investing resources in winning gubernatorial and state legislative races in 2018 and 2020…"
• "A commitment to investing in organizing in states with competitive gubernatorial and state legislative races…"
• "A commitment from the candidate to serving full time as chair."
• "Commitment to provide resources to state parties for organizing and communications staff…"
• "A commitment to working with Democratic governors…on advancing policies that grow our economy and strengthen the middle class."

Meanwhile, The New York Times reports Labor Secretary Thomas E. Perez has told three senior Democrats he will make a bid to become DNC chairman.

If he does, Perez would challenge front-running candidate, Rep. Keith Ellison for the post, according to the newspaper.

• AFL-CIO Supports Ellison for Democratic Party Chairman
• Ellison to Resign House Seat If Chosen to Lead DNC