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Beyond Hillary Clinton: Eight Democrats who might run if she doesn’t

If Hillary Clinton runs, few other Democrats will. But if she doesn't, there's a big potential field out there. 

7. Kirsten Gillibrand

Carolyn Kaster/AP/File
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York addresses a panel testifying about sexual assault in the military during a Senate hearing Capitol Hill in Washington on March 13, 2013.

  • By Linda Feldmann Staff writer

Without Clinton (or Elizabeth Warren) in the race, Senator Gillibrand could satisfy Democratic yearning to put the first woman in the White House. Though little known outside New York, she is popular at home. She’s also good at fundraising, and has been helping fellow Democrats through her two political action committees. 

Gillibrand will publish a memoir in fall 2014 that will encourage women “to make their voices heard,” she said in statement in 2013. Aspiring presidents often publish books before a campaign launch.

At the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., in 2012, Gillibrand gave a well-received address to the delegates from Iowa – home of the first nominating contest. When asked, she insists she’s not running for president, and has already thrown her support behind Clinton.

"I am personally urging Secretary Clinton to run," Gillibrand said during an event at the Third Way think tank in June 2013. "I've told her I plan to support her in any way I can.”

As a New Yorker, Gillibrand would in fact be third in line to run for president from her state, after Clinton and Governor Cuomo. But if the other two opt out, she would have an opening. 

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Mark Sappenfield
Editor

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