South Carolina party chair jumps into DNC race

South Carolina Democratic Party Chairman Jaime Harrison announced his candidacy to be chairman of the Democratic National Committee on Monday night.

"I'm throwing my hat in Rachel," Harrison said during an interview with MSNBC's Rachel Maddow, when asked if he was entering the race to be DNC chair.


Harrison's announcement came the same day that Rep. Keith Ellison of Minnesota jumped into the race for DNC chairman, rolling out a list of endorsements from congressional lawmakers and elected officials.

Former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean is also a candidate to lead the DNC, replacing interim Chairwoman Donna Brazile.

Harrison has long expressed interest in being chair and in the days leading up to his announcement he talked with fellow committee Democrats.

"He's making his calls to those on the Hill, to other chairs, executive directors, et cetera, within the various states," said South Carolina DNC committeeman Clay Middleton earlier Monday.