Joe Lieberman had what rights after being elected as an independent in congress?

Question

I am wondering about his rights as being a chairman

Answer 1

My understanding is that he negotiated to keep his seniority and committee assignments--but that those rights would not necessarily have been his as an independent. But the Dem leadership knew they need his vote and backing to have the majority. He also has the right to caucus with whichever party he chooses. (He chose the Dems.)

Answer 2

For the purpose of seniority and chairmanships a senator is designated Democrat or Republican by the party he chooses to caucus with, Lieberman has continually stated that he will be with the Democrats, because he knows that is his only chance at a meaningful commitee chairmanship. I have read that he will be given the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs commitee. The Democrats would be wise to stay close to Mr. Lieberman, as the saying goes "keep your friends close and your enemies closer". Mr Lieberman could destroy everything the Democrats won in the election by switching sides and throwing the Senate into a tie, where Cheney would have the deciding vote.

Answer 3

The democrat party didn't kick Lieberman to the curb. The voters did when the picked his opponent in the primaries. Whomever the voters picked in the primaries are the ones that the democrats will back financially. It was the voters that made him run as an independent.

Answer 4

Seniority. The demos realized they want to keep Joe on their good side after they stabbed him in the back! Stay tuned!

Answer 5

he will vote with the democrats.that is one more vote for the
democrats.he will be the chairman of homeland security.

Answer 6

He can vote for "whatever" without being called a traitor.

Answer 7

Your ppers elect him to chairmanships, and since he has always be a democat they elected him