Why Senate Democrats Created New Position for Elizabeth Warren
Published at
US Senate(WASHINGTON) — Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., is joining Senate leadership after Senate Democrats created a new leadership position just for her.
In the new position as a strategic policy adviser to the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee, Warren will serve as a liaison to liberal groups to ensure they have a voice in leadership meetings and discussions, according to a source familiar with the role.
“I believe in what the Democrats are fighting for. You know Wall Street is doing very well. CEO’s are bringing in millions more and families all across this country are struggling. We have to make this government work for the American people and that’s what we’re here to fight for,” Warren said in response to a question from ABC News about her new position. “I am grateful to the leader. I am grateful to the caucus to give me the chance to be part of that fight but that’s what we’re all going to be here doing every single day. That’s what we’re about.”
The newly created position will elevate Warren’s stature in the Senate at a time when many progressives are calling on her to run for president in 2016.
“I expect her to be Elizabeth Warren,” said Sen. Harry Reid, who was elected as the next Senate Minority Leader.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., joined the leadership team as the director of steering and outreach. Democrats also selected Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., as chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.
Reid was elected as the next Senate minority leader though he drew opposition from at least two Democratic senators — Claire McCaskill of Missouri and Joe Manchin of West Virginia. Manchin said a group of senators asked for Democrats to be given an additional week to discuss who should be the next leader and what changes Democrats need to make in the next Congress.
On the Republican side, Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell was elected to be the next Senate majority leader by acclamation in the Republican caucus. McConnell and Reid will assume their new positions when the new Congress convenes in January.
Republicans elected Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., as chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee for the next cycle, which will consist of many close races in Republican held seats.
Follow @ABCNewsRadio
Copyright 2014 ABC News Radio