Joe Shoemaker

Why He Matters

Shoemaker one of the key voices for the Senate Democratic agenda. As communications director for Majority Whip Richard J. Durbin (D-Ill.), he peddles daily stories and shapes long-term strategy. Shoemaker says he tries to tell Americans that Democrats want to "make government work again for people. For too long, it's worked for special interests or not worked at all."

Shoemaker worked in public relations and for a variety of congressional leaders before settling down with Durbin in 2001. Now, he works with the staff of Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid's (D-Nev.) and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) to develop a coherent party message and to sell Democratic legislative goals to the public. His role became even more important in 2007 when Democrats retook the congressional majority.

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