But they only have an opportunity to be paid because of their status as party insiders.

He won little support from party insiders, and placed last with 4% of the vote.

Brown was named along with several other experienced party insiders to Jackson's convention operation.

But party insiders maintained that his days as a power broker were finished.

The decision marked a break with rule by party insiders and their appointees.

Velásquez is considered a governing party insider and served in Congress for 14 years.

Most party insiders, including the incumbent governor's supporters, were not amused.

But several Democratic Party insiders said privately that they believed he was serious about running.

Party insiders say the outcome of the Federal trial will determine his future in the party.

"It's a mess," said one party insider, who insisted on anonymity to protect his position within the organization.