Ken Martin Secures Endorsement in DNC Race as James Skoufis Withdraws
New York state Sen. James Skoufis is withdrawing from the Democratic National Committee chair’s race and has thrown his support behind Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party Chair Ken Martin.
In a statement exclusively obtained by POLITICO, Skoufis, a dark horse candidate positioning himself as an outsider to the party, stated that Martin ‘will refocus our party’s priorities: broadening our reach and reconstructing the Democratic tent by shifting influence away from the DC Beltway and sidelining the detached consultant class.’
Endorsements and Impact
Despite Skoufis’ limited backing for his own candidacy, his endorsement adds to the growing list of supporters for Martin, a top contender who has garnered endorsements from over 50 state party chairs and vice chairs.
Skoufis’ departure coincides with the entry of Faiz Shakir, the former campaign manager for Bernie Sanders, into the race, injecting new dynamics into a competition primarily centered on party operations rather than ideological differences.
Challenges and Prospects
Martin and Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair Ben Wikler stand out as frontrunners in the eyes of party insiders, having secured substantial backing among the 448 DNC members set to cast their votes on Feb. 1. Other candidates, including former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley, will participate in the upcoming DNC-sanctioned forum in Michigan, while Shakir failed to qualify.
Expressing gratitude for Skoufis’ endorsement, Martin commended him as ‘a compelling, innovative voice capable of forging diverse alliances crucial for Democratic victories in conservative strongholds. He is an indispensable asset to the modern Democratic Party,’ emphasizing his appreciation for the support and advocacy.
