Rep. Steve Israel to lead House's Democratic campaign arm

WASHINGTON - The daunting task of trying to win the House back for Democrats in 2012 after this year's GOP sweep into the majority was handed Friday to Rep. Steve Israel (D-Huntington).

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) announced she had appointed Israel as chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, elevating him into party leadership and giving him a tough but important job.

"Steve Israel has demonstrated extraordinary capabilities in recruiting candidates, in attracting resources, and in communicating core Democratic values for middle class and working families," Pelosi said.

Republicans picked up a net of at least 61 House seats this year, erasing Democratic gains from 2006 and 2008. But Democrats argue many of those GOP seats can be won back in 2012.

Israel faces an uncertain political atmosphere, affected by the economy, redistricting and presidential politics.

He also must raise money to erase a $17-million campaign committee debt and rebuild the war chest. But he's proven that he's up to the task - he raised $6.45 million for the committee during the past three election cycles.