Julie Ann O’Brien

U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud’s current chief of staff will take a one-year leave of absence to oversee all of the Democratic campaigns in the state.

Peter Chandler will lead the Democratic Coordinated Campaign starting in January. He said he’ll be in charge of voter contact with the party and the get-out-the-vote initiatives.

“It’s an exciting time to be doing this,” Chandler said. “The Democratic Party is poised to take back the White House. It’s a good time to be a Democrat.”

Chandler grew up in Biddeford, and is a Portland resident. He said his goal – other than the Democrats winning – is to heighten the Democrats’ reputation in the state.