Democrats set to elect new leader

The election to choose a new leader of the Democratic Party following Hillary Clinton's electoral defeat is set to take place on Thursday.

Washington, Nov 15: The election to choose a new leader of the Democratic Party following Hillary Clinton's electoral defeat is set to take place on Thursday.

Donna Brazile, the interim chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), held the position temporarily following the resignation of Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman-Schulz.

Schulz was earlier criticised for influencing the primary process to help Clinton win over Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders.

Congressman Keith Ellison, who is considered as one of the party's more progressive elements, is being seen a front runner for the post. Ellison has the support of Sanders, Senate minority leader Harry Reid and the influential Sen Elizabeth Warren.

Meanhwile, Clinton has urged the members of her party to not be "divided" or "discouraged" and emphasised the importance of "analysing" and "understanding" the election loss they suffered on November 8.

She said that, in the end, the Democratic vision for the country won the most votes and she was grateful for that, adding that nobody is sadder than she at the outcome.

President Barack Obama also spoke on that matter on Monday, saying that it will be "healthy" for the Democratic Party to reflect on the defeat, and going on to advise lawmakers to get closer to their base and establish a closer relationship with local and rural communities.

(With IANS inputs)