Valerie Jarrett
As Obama Recruits, the Senate Scramble Is Just Beginning
Officially, Valerie Jarrett appeared on this morning’s “Meet the Press” to discuss Barack Obama’s transition effort, which she is helping to lead. But hours later, her turn in the national spotlight took on added significance, with the news that Obama apparently wants Jarrett to succeed him in the United States Senate. In hindsight, she might have been auditioning.
Whether Jarrett, a Chicago lawyer and civic leader who has been closely involved in Obama’s entire political career, ends up being elevated to the Senate isn’t, of course, the president-elect’s call. The power of appointment belongs to Illinois’ Democratic governor, Rod Blagojevich. But, presumably, Obama’s recommendation will go a long way. read more »
The Brokered Unification of Obama and Clinton Bundlers, Continued
The slow pace of bundler integration between the Obama and Clinton campaigns is picking up, however slightly.
On July 1, Obama's national finance chair, Penny Pritzker, will be in New York for a series of meetings and fund-raising events with major Clinton bundlers, according to one Obama donor familiar with the plans. And Obama confidante Valerie Jarrett met yesterday with Clinton bundlers at a get-together organized by former treasury secretary and Clinton supporter Robert Rubin.
