Martin O’Malley passes on bid for DNC chairman

Former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley said Wednesday that he will not run for chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

“While I’m grateful to the supportive friends who have urged me to consider running for DNC Chair, I will not be seeking our Party’s Chairmanship,” Mr. O’Malley said in an email blast. “The DNC needs a Chair who can do the job fully and with total impartiality. The national interest must come first.”

Rep. Keith Ellison of Minnesota is running for the top spot at the DNC and former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean, who previously held the job, also has shown interest.

Whoever gets the post will take over a party in disarray following tough losses in the 2016 election.

Mr. O’Malley tried to put his stamp on the party during his bid for the Democratic presidential nomination, but his candidacy quickly flamed out.

“In the days ahead, my family and I will continue to do everything in our power to fight for the Democratic Party, and for the more compassionate and inclusive country that we carry in our hearts,” Mr. O’Malley said.