Howard Dean at YearlyKos, 2006.

This just in from the New York Times blog: "Howard Dean will not seek a second term as chairman of the Democratic National Committee, ending a tenure marked by an aggressive attempt to reshape the mission of the committee – and to court support by the so-called Netroots – but also marked by frequent quarrels with Democratic leaders over his abilities and the direction he was taking the party."

Dean may have picked a good time to make his exit. With Democrats in control the legislative and executive branches, the influence of the DNC chair’s office is expected to wane. 

The Netroots is watching carefully to see whether the next DNC chair will  share Dean’s commitment to the 50-state strategy.