(NewsNation) — Former presidential hopeful Marianne Williamson, who joined the race to lead the Democratic National Committee the day after Christmas, explained her decision to run on “NewsNation Prime.”
Williamson, currently the only woman vying for the leadership role, believes the Democratic Party‘s handling of its primary, President Joe Biden’s departure and Vice President Kamala Harris’ ascension are to blame for the bruising November defeat to President-elect Donald Trump.
“It’s about the heart of democracy, and that’s what’s going to have to change going forward,” Williamson said. “We’re going to have to rebuild frayed bonds of affection between the Democratic Party, and not only our own electorate, but the people in general.”
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Williamson also addressed her support of Trump’s HHS nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr., defending his notions regarding fluoride in water and expressing concern about forever chemicals.
“The face of the Democratic Party needs to really demonstrate the unequivocal advocacy for the safety, health and well being of every American,” she said.
State party Chairs Ken Martin of Minnesota and Ben Wikler of Wisconsin; former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley; New York state Sen. James Skoufis; and Nate Snyder are all running for DNC chair. Robert Houton, a former Maryland Senate candidate, is also running, but his candidacy is considered a long shot.
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In announcing her bid, Williamson wrote in a letter to members of the party “it’s important that we recognize the psychological and emotional dimensions of Trump’s appeal.”
“We need to understand it to create the energy to counter it. MAGA is a distinctly 21st century political movement and it will not be defeated by a 20th century tool kit,” she added.
NewsNation partner The Hill contributed to this report.
