Neel had taken a leave of absence in September to help Gore plan for a new administration. However, while Gore won the popular vote, he lost the electoral vote and ultimately the election. While the election campaign and the strange Florida post-election battle were draining experiences for many folks involved, it seems to have bolstered Neel's interest in politics. While he's still working out his future, Neel said his plans involve helping Democrats run for the Senate and perhaps the White House. Look for Neel and Gore to work together on some projects.
Elections are a natural time for transitions. . . .
The trade group has set up a committee to search for Neel's replacement. Clinton Aide to Head New PR Firm Swidler Berlin Shereff Friedman , one of the city's major law firms, is creating a new lobbying and public affairs company. The Harbour Group will develop and implement lobbying, public relations and crisis management strategies for clients. While Swidler Berlin lawyers are already active on the lobbying scene, the subsidiary will also provide an array of strategic communications services, says Barry Direnfeld , managing partner of Swidler Berlin. The firm is launching the new lobby shop with Clinton adviser Joel Johnson and Democratic activist and PR executive Richard Marcus at the helm as managing directors.