Dean At Rules Meeting: Unity Starts Now

Sat, May 31, 2008 - 9:01 AM

WASHINGTON -- Let the healing begin! So says Democratic National Committee chairman Howard Dean, in opening up today's crucial rules meeting that will determine the fate of Michigan and Florida's delegates.

The committee's decision, expected by late afternoon , could play a big role in whether Hillary Clinton will continue her campaign, or possibly fold her tent as early as next week.

Dean is not a member of the rules committee, but just delivered some opening remarks.

He said that the party is going to nominate either the first woman or the first African-American presidential nominee.

"This has been a very long and hard-fought race," he said. "They have made our party stronger, and I want to thank them very much."

"It has been a very long, tough, difficult campaign.”

He said that over the course of the primary, there also have been some ugly moments, including "blatant sexist comments" in the media -- prompting applause from the jampacked room -- and even racist remarks.

“But I remind you that our work is just beginning," he added.

“The cynics in the media and elsewhere will look at today’s meeting and find conflict," Dean said. “Understandably, the compromise you will discuss and make today will not satisfy everyone.”

“Your actions today will put us back on course for party unity," he said.

-- Billy House