February 2015

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Here are the major U.S. Democrats' political activities in February 2015, based on available information:
Oregon Governor Investigation: On February 9, Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum (D) announced a criminal investigation into Governor John Kitzhaber (D) and his fiancée Cylvia Hayes, following allegations of influence peddling. Kitzhaber himself requested an investigation into his administration on the same day. This led to significant political fallout, with Kitzhaber resigning later in February, and Kate Brown (D), the Oregon Secretary of State, assuming the governorship.

Hillary Clinton’s Pre-Campaign Activity: Although not yet officially announced, Hillary Clinton was actively preparing for her 2016 presidential campaign in February 2015. She would formally declare her candidacy for the Democratic nomination on April 12, 2015, but groundwork, including fundraising and strategy planning, was underway during this period.

Democratic National Committee (DNC) Resolution on Iran Nuclear Deal: In February 2015, groundwork for the Democratic Party’s support for the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with Iran was evident, as the Obama administration was negotiating the deal, finalized later in 2015. While the DNC’s formal resolution to re-enter the JCPOA came in 2019, Democratic leaders were vocal in supporting diplomatic efforts with Iran during this time.

Congressional Dynamics and Polarization: Democrats in Congress were navigating a Republican-led Congress that began in January 2015. A Pew Research Center report noted that 58% of Democrats perceived a “great deal” of difference between the two parties, reflecting growing polarization. Democrats were less critical of their party’s adherence to traditional positions (e.g., protecting minorities, helping the poor) compared to Republicans, with 55% rating their party’s performance as fair or poor.

New York Assemblyman Sheldon Silver’s Indictment: In January 2015, former Democratic New York Assemblyman Sheldon Silver was indicted on bribery, extortion, and conspiracy charges, with additional charges filed in April 2015. While the initial indictment occurred in January, the political repercussions continued into February, impacting Democratic leadership in New York. Silver allegedly used his position to amass over $4 million in bribes and kickbacks.

No other specific Democratic Party activities in February 2015 were highlighted in the provided sources, but these events reflect key political engagements, including state-level crises, pre-campaign activities, and national policy positioning.