Schumer Elected Vice Chair Of The Conference, Takes Over Democratic Policy Committee

By Ji Hyun Yoo - Talk Radio News Service

New York Senator Chuck Schumer was elected Tuesday as the Vice Chair of the Conference and named by Senate Majority Harry Reid (D-Nev.) as the new head of the Democratic Policy Committee.

Schumer, who with the additional position will be tasked with crafting the party’s communications effort, will be the third highest ranking member of the Senate, falling behind Reid and Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.)

As Democratic Policy Committee Chair, Schumer will be stepping in for retiring Senator Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.).

Sen. Mark Begich (R-Alaska) will serve as Chair of the Sterring and Outreach Committee, Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) will be the Vice Chair of the Democratic Policy Committee and Daniel Inouye (D-Hi.) will act as President Pro Temp.

Reid and Durbin will keep the same positions.