Campaign Whispers: Latas for Arizona Democratic Party Chairman?

I heard an interesting rumor that deserves some competent mongering.

If Jeff Latas doesn’t win the Democratic primary for Congress, there are lots of folks who would be very supportive of him becoming the new Arizona Democratic Party Chairman. It certainly seems a perfect fit. Many see Jeff as Arizona’s Howard Dean; right on target with his philosophy and message, but a bit short on name recognition and money.

The Chairmanship is currently occupied by care-taker David Waid, formerly the executive director of the Party. He took over from Jim Pederson, who, of course, is running for Senate against Jon Kyl. That history suggests something that Jeff would do well to consider if he is urged to campaign for the Chairmanship come September 13th. Jeff doesn’t currently have state-wide recognition nor the party relationships needed to run for state-wide office, but the Chairmanship could confer both assets. Someone is going to need to be our nominee in 2008 for the open Governorship, and (if McCain runs and gets the nomination for President) the open Senate seat; a lot of people would be very happy to see Jeff in either race.

One legacy from the Dean campaign and his subsequent chairmanship is that easily 1/3rd of the state committee are now confirmed Deaniacs who would enthusiastically support a Chairman like Jeff, who has clearly demostated in his Congressional race his progressive credentials and that he understands the power and neccessity of a strong grassroots internet and ground game. With a solid minority in the state committee on his side, Jeff could be a just a few minor ring-kissings away from the Chairmanship.