Michael Berman, a political strategist and influential figure in Washington, D.C., has passed away at the age of 84. Berman, who initially came to the nation’s capital as a top aide to Vice President Walter Mondale, had a diverse career that included organizing Democratic conventions, lobbying lawmakers, and writing a heartfelt book about his struggles with obesity.
According to his wife, Debbie Cowan, Berman had been under medical care after suffering a stroke before his death on January 12 at a Washington hospital. His passing marks the end of an era for two distinct groups in Washington: the behind-the-scenes political operatives and the well-connected lobbyists who gain power through their access to influential individuals.
During his time in the Clinton White House, Berman had what he referred to as “roaming rights,” which allowed him to freely enter offices and attend meetings as part of his unofficial role as a problem solver. He played a crucial role in preparing nominees for Senate confirmation hearings, including future Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Berman also assisted with White House messaging during President Bill Clinton’s 1998 impeachment proceedings.
In addition to his work in politics, Berman co-founded the Duberstein Group, a lobbying firm that combined his network among Democrats with the deep GOP alliances of Kenneth Duberstein, who served as President Ronald Reagan’s chief of staff. The firm’s clients included major corporations such as Time Warner, Anheuser-Busch, General Motors, and BP.
Berman’s political and lobbying worlds often overlapped, sometimes resulting in unexpected choices. Despite representing clients with oil interests, he threw his support behind LGBTQ+ rights initiatives led by the Human Rights Campaign. Berman later became the first non-LGBT member of the group’s board, a move praised by his colleagues for its groundbreaking nature.
Berman was also open about his lifelong battle with obesity and the challenges it presented. He chronicled his struggles in his 2006 book, “Living Large: A Big Man’s Ideas on Weight, Success, and Acceptance.” The book delved into his experiences with weight loss efforts and the emotional toll of being unable to control his appetite. Berman ultimately learned to accept his size and find contentment, advocating for empathy and understanding in society.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Berman had a passion for dining out and even found a way to incorporate it into his political interests. His newsletter, “Mike’s Washington Watch,” was a mix of news clips, musings, and statistics, often accompanied by tales of his meals at restaurants. He provided detailed observations of restaurant restrooms, becoming an unexpected authority on the topic.
Born on April 9, 1939, in Duluth, Minnesota, Berman’s career in politics began when he took a job with Walter Mondale, then Minnesota attorney general, during President Lyndon B. Johnson’s re-election campaign. He remained by Mondale’s side throughout his political career, serving as his deputy chief of staff and counsel during Mondale’s time as Jimmy Carter’s vice president.
Berman is survived by his wife Debbie Cowan, two stepsons, a stepdaughter, and two sisters. He will be remembered not only for his contributions to politics and lobbying, but also as a mentor to many individuals in the field, including former U.S. ambassador to Israel, Tom Nides. Berman’s impact on Washington, D.C. and his dedication to bipartisanship will leave a lasting legacy in the nation’s capital..
