While increasingly liberals are urging the Democratic National Committee (DNC) to throw U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla., overboard, the Florida congresswoman does have a major ally on Capitol Hill in her corner.
This week, liberal groups started petitioning the DNC to remove Wasserman Schultz, accusing her of limiting the number of debates to help her old ally former U.S. Sec. of State Hillary Clinton in the presidential primaries and bashing her for accusing young women of showing “complacency” in voting and taking women’s issues for granted.
But Wasserman Schultz got a vote of confidence from U.S. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., on Thursday. Pelosi and Wasserman Schultz have often been uneasy allies over the years. There were reports back in 2012 that Wasserman Schultz wanted to remove Pelosi from leading Democrats in the House. Pelosi has clearly favored U.S. House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer, D-Md., over Wasserman Schultz as her chief lieutenant.
Despite all that, Pelosi went to bat for Wasserman Schultz at her weekly press conference on Thursday though she added she wanted more debates between the Democratic candidates.
“Since we’re talking politics, progressive groups, some, are calling for Debbie Wasserman Schultz to step down as the head of DNC. She’s been in open battles with one of your Democratic members. Does she still have your confidence?” the media asked Pelosi.
“Yes,” Pelosi answered.
“Can you elaborate?” the media asked. “Why does she have your confidence?”
“Well, I don’t share the concerns that others have put forth,” Pelosi said. “I have been vocal in saying I thought we should’ve had more debates. That isn’t about her leadership; it’s just about a decision that was made by those who make those decisions.
“But Debbie Wasserman Schultz is a very valued member of the House of Representatives from the standpoint of policy,” Pelosi added. “She knows her issues. She came here as an experienced legislator from the Florida Legislature. She has all the stamina and enthusiasm for the job that she has, and I believe she has the confidence of the president and will of the nominee of our party. And that’s where these decisions are made.
“But now that the DNC is being sued by one of your presidential candidates, do you think she’s been good for the party?” the media asked.
“I’m not aware of that,” Pelosi said. “I’m not aware of a lawsuit. I’m sorry. I’m just not paying that much attention to that aspect of it, you know?”
Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or follow him on Twitter: @KevinDerbySSN
