New effort promises 1,000 trained Democratic staffers for 2020

[DonViejo]

By NATASHA KORECKI 11/14/2018 06:02 AM EST

Anticipating a sprawling Democratic presidential field and a shortage of experienced, high-quality campaign professionals, a left-leaning group is launching a $4.5 million effort to train 1,000 staffers to be ready in time for 2020 combat.

The group, called Arena, will begin holding training academies across the country in 2019, with a goal of deploying at least 450 of those trainees onto Democratic presidential primary campaigns or in state legislative races.

“We know there’s going to be unprecedented demand, it’s going to be the most crowded presidential primary we’ve had in a long time,” said Kate Catherall, Arena co-founder and senior partner.

The initiative comes as a massive potential field begins to take shape on the Democratic side. Before the midterm primaries had even concluded, potential presidential contenders were already working to lock down staff. Top-tier prospective candidates like Sens. Cory Booker, Kamala Harris and Elizabeth Warren were interviewing candidates, hiring personnel or calling possible hires in early presidential states. Maryland Congressman John Delaney has already announced his candidacy, as has West Virginia Democrat Richard Ojeda.

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https://www.politico.com/story/2018/11/14/democratic-staff-2020-989747