Detroit Mayor and President of the National Conference of Democratic Mayors Dennis Archer greeted Democratic National Committee Chairman Joe Andrew, who stopped by the NCDM meeting on January 17 to thank them for their support during his tenure as leader of the DNC. Andrew has resigned as Chair of the DNC and will be leaving the organization on in the near future. Mayor Archer also introduced former Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson and former Clinton fund raiser Terry McAuliffe, who are both vying to become the new Chair. Both men briefly addressed the group and asked mayors for their support.

Mayor Archer also welcomed Labor Secretary Alexis Herman and White House Intergovernmental Affairs Director Mickey Ibarra, who summarized the Clinton Administration's accomplishments-improving the economy, eliminating the budget deficit and creating the largest budget surplus in the nation's history. Mayor Archer praised the President and his cabinet for being accessible and responsive to the concerns of urban America. He took time to introduce and recognize numerous staff from various federal agencies. He also praised the DNC staff for its outstanding support of Democratic mayors.